Do Heliconias Need Full Sun

Heliconias should be grown in full sun or part shade in well-drained soil. They’re not drought- or salt-tolerant, but will take moist soils. Heliconias can be used as specimen plants or massed together in groups. Plants will die back after a frost, but new shoots will regenerate once it warms back up.

Will heliconias grow in shade?

Most heliconias are equally at home in full sun or part shade. However, some species are suitable for shade only. Heliconia augusta ‘Red Christmas’ (featured above) likes a shady position, will flower in a large pot and makes a spectacular pot plant for a courtyard or pergola area.

How do I get my Heliconia to flower?

Smaller species heliconias will usually flower within six months of propagation from rhizome. New plants need lots of water, but then only need more as the soil begins to dry out. Established heliconias require volumes of water! Use chicken pellet fertiliser or slow-release fertiliser at planting time.