Heliconia rostrata

May 23, 2009
Heliconia rostrata (Lobster claw, False-bird-of-paradise) 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.