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Heliconia caribaea Caribbean Heliconia, Wild Plantain

Edward F. Gilman and Alan Meerow

Release Date: 8/10/2015

Reviewed At: 4/17/2023

DOI: 10.32473/edis-fp247-1999

Agriculture

Abstract

This document provides a detailed description of the wild plantain, also known as Caribbean heliconia (Heliconia caribaea). It is an herbaceous perennial with large, leathery leaves and showy flowers, suitable for tropical gardens and indoor decoration. The plant thrives in USDA hardiness zones 10B through 11, preferring fertile, moist soil and partial to full sun. It can grow up to 15 feet tall and is propagated by division of matted clumps. While it has outstanding ornamental features, it is sensitive to pests and diseases such as leaf spots, scales, and nematodes. The document also highlights its moderate drought and soil salt tolerance. Original publication date October 1999.

About this Publication

This document is FPS-247, one of a series of the Environmental Horticulture Department, UF/IFAS Extension. Original publication date October 1999. Visit the EDIS website at https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu for the currently supported version of this publication.

About the Authors

Edward F. Gilman, professor, Environmental Horticulture Department; and Alan Meerow, former associate professor, Environmental Horticulture Department, Ft. Lauderdale REC; UF/IFAS Extension, Gainesville, FL 32611.

How to Cite

Gilman, E., & Meerow, A. W. (2007). Heliconia caribaea Caribbean Heliconia, Wild Plantain. EDIS, 2007(16). https://doi.org/10.32473/edis-fp247-1999