Chiba University Matsudo/Kashiwa Campus Plant Database

Details of genus: Heliconia [1563]

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Family: Heliconiaceae

family_ja: オウムバナ

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distribution_en:

description_en: Genus of about 100 species of ever-green perennials found in habitats ranging from tropical forest to open scrub in tropical and subtropical Central and South America, and the S.W. Pacific. They have short rhizomes and long-stalked, paddle- or spoon-shaped, mid- to dark green leaves, to 2m (6ft) long, similar to those of the closely related banana (Musa) and Strelitzia. From spring to summer, they produce large, exotic, erect or pendent flower spikes, made up of brilliantly coloured bracts, arranged spirally or in 2 opposite rows. The bracts enclose the true flowers, which have 3 petals and 3 showy sepals, often in contrasting colours. In frost-prone areas, grow in a warm greenhouse or conservatory; in warmer regions, use as specimen plants for borders or containers outdoors. All last well as cut flowers.

hardiness_en: Frost tender.

cultivation_en:

propagation_en: Sow seed at 19-24°C (66-75°F) in spring. Divide rhizomes in spring.

pests_en: Susceptible to red spider mites, mealybugs, and snails. Phytophthora root rot and Pythium stem rot may also be a problem.

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comment_ja: ヘリコニア

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Update Information: Created: 2007-12-06 12:51; Updated: 2020-09-04 03:56

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