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Lobster Claw or False-bird-of-Paradise

Heliconia rostrata

Description:

A hanging vine with green and red bud. Hangs about 3-4 feet off the ground. This beautiful plant is an herbaceous perennial native to the north western region of South America. Other Heliconias grow in the upright position (Heliconia caribaea), their cup-shaped flowers storing water for birds and insects. This plant, however, has downward-facing flowers, and provides a source of nectar to birds. Heliconias are known to those who grow them as a host flower to many birds, especially the Hummingbird. Because of its unique characteristics, it is often used as a specimen for tropical gardens. Along with the Kantuta flower, Heliconia rostrata, known as patujú, is the national flower of Bolivia.

Habitat:

Warm Tropical Climate

Notes:

I found this plant on my aunts front yard in Puerto Rico. I really wish to know its name.

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2 Comments

Noel Jimenez
Noel Jimenez 11 years ago

AWESOME!!! Thank you MayraSpringmann. Your contribution is greatly appreciated.

MayraSpringmann
MayraSpringmann 11 years ago

Heliconia rostrata

Noel Jimenez
Spotted by
Noel Jimenez

Spotted on Jan 16, 2013
Submitted on Jan 16, 2013

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Heliconia Heliconia flower Heliconia psittacorum Heliconia

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Reference

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