Also known as Parrot’s Beak or False Bird of Paradise, Heliconia psittacorum is a striking tropical that delivers bold color and exotic flair in a compact form. Native to the Caribbean and South America, it’s prized for its vibrant, beak-like bracts in shades of orange, red, and yellow, rising above slender, banana-like foliage. This Heliconia thrives in bright, indirect light to full sun, warm temperatures, and consistently moist, rich soil. It loves humidity and rewards well-kept conditions with repeat blooms throughout the warmer months. Perfect for adding a lush, tropical burst to gardens or large containers, it brings that wild, rainforest energy in a form that’s surprisingly easy to manage.
Heliconia Psittacorum
Light:
Bright indirect light to full sun. Outdoors, filtered light is ideal. Indoors, place near a sunny window.Water:
Keep soil evenly moist but not soggy. Do not allow the roots to dry out completely—this plant appreciates consistency.Humidity:
Loves high humidity (60–80%). Mist regularly or place near a humidifier, especially in drier indoor environments.Temperature:
Warm and stable—65–90°F (18–32°C). Very sensitive to cold; protect from temps below 50°F (10°C).Soil:
Rich, organic, and well-draining. A mix with compost, peat, and perlite or coarse sand is ideal.Growth Habit:
Clump-forming perennial that grows upright to about 3–5 feet. Regular division helps maintain vigor.Flowers:
Bright, tropical bracts resembling parrot beaks, with small true flowers tucked inside. Blooms spring through fall in ideal conditions.
Care Tips:Feed monthly during active growth with a balanced fertilizer.
Trim spent blooms and leaves to encourage new growth.
Can be overwintered indoors in cooler zones—just keep it warm and bright.