Adding an exotic touch to gardens and containers, Heliconia caribaea (Wild Plantain) is a large evergreen perennial boasting huge, oblong, leathery, dark green leaves. Borne on attractive long petioles, 4-5 ft. long (120-150 cm), they arise directly from the rhizomatous rootstock. The spectacular flowers are held in showy clusters that emerge from second year stalks. They are actually modified leaves and bracts in the shape of lobster claws. Deep, rich red or bright yellow, they are 6-8 in. long (15-20 cm). Looking rather like a banana plant, Heliconia caribaea is used as a specimen plant for tropical gardens. The flowers and excellent and long-lasting in flower arrangements.

• Grows up to 6-15 ft. tall (180-450 cm) and 3-6 ft. wide (90-180 cm).
• Performs best in partial shade in humus-rich, moist, fertile, well-drained soils. Fertilize this plant regularly during the growing season. Protect from strong winds.
• Keep an eye out for cercospora and helminthosporum leaf spots. Scales and nematodes may also cause problems.
• Propagate by division of rhizomes or from seeds.
• Native to the Caribbean - Cuba, Haiti, Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico, Jamaica, Leeward Isles, Windward Isles.