Hanging Lobster Claw (Heliconia rostrata)

Celebrated for its spectacular, pendulous flower clusters, Heliconia rostrata (commonly known as Hanging Lobster Claw or False Bird of Paradise) produces vivid scarlet-red bracts tipped in yellow and green above lush, banana-like foliage. This vigorous, rhizomatous tropical makes an unforgettable statement in warm landscape beds, large patio containers, and tropical garden collections. Available as an established plant in a 1-gallon or 3-gallon nursery pot, or as a freshly lifted bare-root division. Bare-root plants may arrive with foliage trimmed to reduce shipping stress and will resume active growth after planting in warm, humid conditions.

Light: Thrives in bright, filtered light to partial sun. Protect from intense afternoon sun in very hot climates, which may scorch the foliage.

Water: Keep consistently moist during active growth. Water thoroughly when the surface begins to dry, but do not allow the roots to remain in stagnant or waterlogged soil.

Soil: Rich, organic, moisture-retentive yet well-draining soil. For bare-root divisions, plant the rhizome just below the soil surface and keep evenly warm and moist while new growth establishes.