This rhizomatous perennial has stiff upright pseudostems with long dark green banana-like leaves and forms a compact clump. The small tube-shaped flowers are arranged in a pendant spike that is accompanied with red bracts that appear during spring.  

Hardiness zones 11 to 12 

Heliconia pendula is naturally found in South America from Guatemala to Peru growing in the rainforest understorey and commonly along water courses. 

It prefers an organic rich well drained moist soil that is tending acidic in a slightly shaded to sunny, wind protected position and is drought and frost tender. 

This Heliconia is grown or its upright foliage and is pendant red inflorescence. It is planted in parks and large gardens or along creek embankments and gullies for a tropical effect. It establishes in 2 to 3 years from division and is suitable for tropical coastal or mountainous regions and is grown under glass in cold climates. ID 2961

Heliconia (hel-ih-KOH-nee-uh) pendula (pen-DUE-lä))

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