Heliconia schiedeana

A FROST-HARDY HELICONIA

This species is native to the cool mountains of E Mexico, so it has some hardiness to frost. Heliconia schiedeana has a bold, shiny, glossy green foliage, holding attractive red inflorescences in Summer or Fall. The bloom is erect, with bright red spathes and yellow flowers. With or without blooms, it is the right plant to give your garden a tropical accent. It is the most popular species for Northern climates, as it thrives outdoors with no protection in the coastal Mediterranean, and can be grown further North with winter protection. Its adult height is variable, between 1,5 and 2,5 m, according to growing conditions.

CULTIVATION OF HELICONIA SCHIEDEANA

New shoots sprout back from the rootstock each spring. A well grown adult plant will bloom each summer if placed in full sun and properly watered and fertilized during the hot months. Protect from heavy frosts, by covering the base of the plant with isolating material. As most Heliconia species, H. schiedeana dislikes the wind and it is tolerant of different kinds of soil, while it likes abundant organic matter. Full sun is recommended in colder climates because it will produce stronger plants with thicker rhizomes.

HELICONIAS IN THE SHOP

We sell strong, field-grown, rhizomes with at least two active growing points.  Click THIS LINK and see how our Heliconia rhizomes look like.