Parrot's beak
Family
Origin
South Africa
Description
Heliconia Psittacorum Lady Di is a perennial, evergreen plant with an upright, rhizomatous growth habit. Its tropical appearance is reminiscent of a bird-of-paradise, with abundant blooms that can be described as hand-painted and vibrant, featuring greenish yellow flowers with a black spot near the apex. This species is known for its profuse blooming all year round.
Heliconia psittacorum flowers are unique as they are transformed leaves and bracts, growing up to 2.5 m tall. The pointed leaves possess a glossy green hue, while the central stem gives rise to beautiful pinkish-red bracts. With a spike length ranging from 20-30 cm, these bracts display a stunning color gradient, transitioning from frosty cream to mauve at the tips. The cream-colored sepals, adorned with green-black bands, are a defining feature of this plant. Each clump produces a remarkable 25-40 spikes per year.
Environment
Heliconia Psittacorum is a low-maintenance plant that can thrive in a variety of growing conditions. It thrives in warm, tropical climates. It can be grown outdoors in a frost-free location with protection from strong winds.
Heliconia Psittacorum prefers full sun to partial shade. In hot, direct sun, it may benefit from some afternoon. Use a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season (spring and summer) to promote healthy growth and flowering
Landscape Use
Heliconia is the fastest growing ornamental plant and is highly suitable in landscape