Christmas Heliconia

Frost Tolerance: Tender in Phoenix, grow in container, or try it in a protected area of the garden

Sun Exposure: Light shade to deep shade

Origin: Mexico to Ecuador

Growth Habits: Clump forming perennials up to 4 feet tall (1.2 m)

Watering Needs: Moist, well drained soil.

Propagation: Clump division, or rhizome

There are hundreds of species of Heliconias coming from tropical America and Pacific Islands. Heliconias, are banana like, and are often classified in the Banana family (Musaceae).
The Heliconia angusta blooms in winter, this is why they are often called 'Christmas Heliconia'.

Culture:
Except for the fact that they are much more tropical, Heliconias behave much like cannas. They are heavy feeders, feed regularly with palm fertilizer. Spent flower canes should be cut to the ground. Every few years when the growth slows down, dug the clump out, and divide it. It is then a good time to amend the soil before replanting.