How to Grow Heliconia, Burrowed Heliconia
Heliconia, Burrowed Heliconia
Heliconia bourgaei
flowerHeliconia bourgaei is a tropical perennial flowering plant native to Central and South America, prized for its distinctive pendulous inflorescences with vibrant red or orange bracts and yellow flowers. It produces large, banana-like foliage and dramatic bird-of-paradise-like flower structures that can reach 12-18 inches in length. This exotic plant is popular in tropical gardens, floral arrangements, and as a specimen ornamental.
When should you plant Heliconia, Burrowed Heliconia in your zone?
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Example Heliconia, Burrowed Heliconia timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Heliconia, Burrowed Heliconia
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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First Heliconia, Burrowed Heliconia blooms
Mid-to-late summerBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
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Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives year-round in zones 11-12; can be grown in containers in cooler zones and brought indoors during winter
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Get my Heliconia, Burrowed Heliconia timeline →Growth Stages
Establishment
3-6 monthsYoung plant develops root system and establishes growth; 2-4 large leaves emerge from rhizome
Maintain consistent moisture and humidity; provide shelter from strong winds; apply balanced fertilizer monthly
Vegetative Growth
6-12 monthsPlant produces larger leaves on progressively taller stems; canopy expands with 5-8 large banana-like leaves
Continue regular watering and high humidity; fertilize every 4-6 weeks with balanced formula; remove any dead foliage
Pre-flowering
4-8 weeksNew shoots emerge with lighter coloration; flowering stems begin to form within leaf sheaths
Increase potassium-rich fertilizer to encourage flowering; maintain warm temperatures (75-85°F); ensure consistent moisture
Flowering
6-12 weeks per bloom cycle; can flower multiple times annuallyDistinctive pendulous inflorescences emerge with bright red or orange bracts and yellow tubular flowers; blooms can last 6-12 weeks
Maintain high humidity and consistent watering; deadhead spent flowers only if needed; provide support for heavy flower stems
Dormancy/Rest
2-4 monthsPlant slows growth in cooler months or dry season; flowering ceases; foliage remains green but growth stalls
Reduce watering frequency; apply minimal fertilizer; maintain temperatures above 60°F if possible; avoid cold drafts
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Increase humidity; mist foliage regularly; use insecticidal soap or neem oil if severe
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Remove with cotton swab dipped in alcohol; apply neem oil or insecticidal soap weekly until resolved
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Scrape off with soft brush; apply horticultural oil or insecticidal soap
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Remove affected leaves; improve air circulation; avoid overhead watering; apply fungicide if widespread
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Ensure excellent drainage; reduce watering frequency; repot in fresh soil if root rot detected
Uses
Floral Display & Tropical Arrangements
CulinaryHeliconia bourgaei flowers are premium tropical blooms highly valued in floral design for their dramatic, exotic appearance and long vase life. They serve as spectacular focal flowers in tropical, contemporary, and wedding arrangements. [source]
Indoor & Outdoor Ornamental Decor
HouseholdThe plant's striking architectural form and vibrant inflorescences make it an outstanding specimen plant for tropical gardens, conservatories, and interior spaces with bright light and high humidity. [source]
Hummingbird & Pollinator Attraction
WildlifeHeliconia flowers are adapted for bird pollination, particularly hummingbirds, which feed on the nectar. The plant is excellent for attracting hummingbirds and other pollinators in tropical gardens. [source]
Traditional Tropical Medicine
MedicinalIn Central and South American traditional medicine, various Heliconia species have been used for their potential anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, though scientific validation is limited. [source]
Dried Flower & Craft Materials
CraftDried Heliconia bracts retain their vibrant color and rigid structure, making them ideal for dried flower arrangements, craft projects, and floral installations. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Heliconia flowers can be harvested when bracts are fully colored and firm. Cut stems at the base using sharp, sterile shears, preferably in early morning. Flowers last 2-3 weeks in a vase; change water every 3-4 days. Leave enough foliage on the plant to support continued growth and future blooms. Harvest mature, well-formed inflorescences; immature blooms may not open fully after cutting.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Heliconia bourgaei is native to the rainforests of Central America and northern South America, where hummingbirds and other birds have co-evolved with the plant to pollinate its flowers as they feed on nectar.
- 🌱 The pendulous inflorescences of Heliconia bourgaei can weigh several pounds when fully hydrated and laden with flowers, making sturdy support structures important in garden settings.
- 🌱 Unlike true bananas, Heliconia's large leaves are not edible, but the plants are closely related to bananas and bird-of-paradise plants, all belonging to the order Zingiberales.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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