Also known as Crab's Claws · False Bird-Of-Paradise · Hanging Heliconia
False Bird of Paradise (Heliconia rostrata) boasts spectacular pendent bracts in red and yellow, resembling a bird's beak. It's a tropical showstopper.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Bright, Indirect Light
75% intensity
Prefers full sun to partial shade, but protect from intense afternoon sun.
Consistent Moisture
75% intensity
Maintain evenly moist soil, avoid waterlogging.
Well-drained, rich, organic loam
50% intensity
Warm
75% intensity
Ideal temperatures are between 20-27°C. Protect from frost and sudden temperature drops.
Regular Feeding
50% intensity
Feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer during the growing season.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
Non-toxic
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Keep the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged. Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry. Reduce watering slightly during cooler months, but never let the plant completely dry out.
Adequate drainage is crucial to prevent root rot.
Remove spent flower stalks and any yellowed or damaged leaves as they appear. Cut back dead foliage at the base of the plant. Pruning encourages new growth and maintains a tidy appearance.
Heavy pruning can be done in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges.
Propagate by division of rhizomes in spring. Carefully separate sections of the rhizome that have at least one eye or growing point.
Replant the divisions in well-draining potting mix, keeping them consistently moist until established.
Repot every 2-3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound. Choose a pot that is only slightly larger than the current one. Use a well-draining potting mix, such as a blend of potting soil, perlite, and compost.
Repot in spring.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of False Bird Of Paradise (Heliconia rostrata)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Zingiberales |
| Family | Heliconiaceae |
| Genus | Heliconia |
| Species | Heliconia rostrata |
Similar in genus Heliconia
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
