This rhizomatous perennial has large banana-like light green stemed leaves and forms a clump. The large erect flower spike has many scarlet boat-shaped bracts that contain whitish tube-shaped flowers that appear during spring.

Hardiness zones 11 to 12

Heliconia bihaiis naturally found from Central America to South America 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.

The Macaw Flower is grown for its flowers and is planted in tropical gardens as a specimen or along borders for screening. It is suitable for coastal regions and establishes in 2 to 3 years. It is also planted along water courses in a rainforest setting and there are many cultivars available. ID 2962

Heliconia(hel-ih-KOH-nee-uh) bihai (bee-HA-ee)

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