Heliconia Care Instructions

Taxonomic Name: Heliconia psitticorum

Heliconia Family

Very Large Herbaceous Plant

The heliconia is without a doubt one of the loveliest of large plants used indoors. A fairly close relative of the bird of paradise plant, the heliconia is the somewhat more elegant of the two. Its large but gracefully tapered leaves and tall, brightly colored flowering stalks impart an air of tropical elegance.

How to Care for Your Plant:

LIGHT: Bright, direct sunlight is necessary; the plant must receive, at the least, unobstructed western or eastern light. If you want your plant to flower when it reaches shrub or tree size, you must give it full southern light--preferably in a greenhouse, conservatory, or solarium setting.

WATERING: Make sure the soil surface dries between waterings, but water thoroughly soon thereafter. At least a little water should come out of the pot's bottom drainage holes, but the plant should not stand in saucer water for more than thirty minutes.

FEEDING: Use an all purpose houseplant fertilizer every third watering when the plant is actively growing. Cut back on feeding when the plant appears dormant.

POTENTIAL PROBLEMS: Watch for small, white, cottony masses that signal the presence of mealybug insects. These pests can be controlled with careful spraying or with systemic granules. Check with the Chalet greenhouse or garden shop staff for specific product recommendations.