Heliconias are one of the most striking tropical plants you can grow in Australian gardens. With bold foliage and dramatic flowers, they create an instant tropical feel in landscapes and screening gardens.
This guide explains how to plant, grow and care for heliconias so they establish quickly and thrive in the right conditions.
We are often asked how best to prepare for planting and ongoing care of heliconia. Here's a quick guide and some information for your consideration
Heliconia are grown from a rhizome which forms their root system. Most heliconia you will buy despite their height are juvenile plants grown in the the same season as you are planting them. There will be period of adjustment when planting your heliconia and this may result in browning or spotting on the foliage, there is generally no need for concern if the conditions are provided for them to ultimately thrive.
Please note that heliconia are NOT suitable for areas that are prone to frost during winter.
Key requirements for planting heliconia to create ideal conditions include;
- Well draining rich organic soil - ideally when planting in the ground, mound the soil and plant your heliconia into the mound. Use a mix of rich organic soil and river sand or other substrate to encourage effective drainage. Raised garden beds are also a great way to grow heliconia as good drainage is easily achievable
- Initially when planting use a good layer of mulch. A light-weight mulch such as sugar cane mulch is a good option as it breathes well, decomposes with essential nutrients for the plants and creates warmth for the roots during the colder months. This is particularly important for cooler climates during the colder months. Pebbles are a popular choice but we do suggest holding off until the plants second season at least if possible.
- Watering ~ whilst heliconia do like water especially during the warmer months, it is important that the water can quickly and easily drain away from the roots, never allow your heliconia to “sit” in water and to the same ensure they never dry out completely. During winter your watering regime may need to be scaled back to suit the specific conditions of your area and location. Moist soil only never wet and never dry.
- A good feed of organic fertiliser coming into spring will encourage strong growth during the warmer months and liquid fertiliser when required.
If at any time you are unsure or your heliconia aren’t thriving, feel free to reach out for more specific guidance. It is normal for heliconia to brown and foliage does die off with new foliage ready to take its place during spring.
When ordering you are confirming that you accept and understand these care conditions and please consider carefully if they are suitable for your requirements.