This tropical rhizomatous perennial has upright reed-like stems with large oblong banana-like mid green leaves and forms a clump. The boat-shaped bright red flowers are arranged in a zig zag single plane, pendant spike and appears in summer.

Hardiness zones 10 to 12 

Heliconia rostrata is naturally found in South America from Peru to Ecuador growing in tropical regions along river banks in humus rich well drained acidic loams. It prefers a semi shaded to sunny position and is drought and frost tender.

The Lobster-claw is grown for its exotic flowers and its tropical effect. It is planted in rainforest settings or grown under glass in cold climates. It is suitable for coastal regions establishing in 2 to 3 years from division. The flowers are used in floral arrangements. ID 2548

Heliconia (hel-ih-KOH-nee-uh) rostrata (ro-STRAYT-a)

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