This rhizomatous perennial is upright and spreading with long stalked, arching linear-shaped dark green leaves and forms a clump. The whitish tube-shaped flower appears in a spike and is accompanied by boat-shaped red bracts, above the foliage on a stem in spring.

Hardiness zones 11 to 12 

Heliconia angusta is naturally found in south eastern Brazil growing in protected shaded positions in humus rich, fertile moist soils that are slightly acid. 

Heliconia is a perennial that is grown for its colourful flowers and is used in tropical settings as an understorey plant or around a water feature. It is also grown in containers establishing from division in 2 to 3 years. The flowers are used in floral arrangements and it is an excellent glasshouse specimen for cooler climates. ID 1792

Note:
This genus is closely related to Strelitzia and Musa and has simular leaf features. 

Heliconia (hel-ih-KOH-nee-uh) angusta (an-GUS-ta)

Heliconiaceae (HEL-ee-Kon-ee-AY-see-ee)