Lobster Claw Heliconia rostrata
ABOUT
The plant commonly known as the lobster claw or false bird of paradise is a tropical beauty with a distinct appearance. The most striking feature of this plant is its colorful flower bracts which come in vibrant shades of red, orange, and sometimes yellow. These bracts are claw-like in shape, which is how the plant gets its nickname, and they dangle gracefully in a pendant fashion. Each flower cluster of the lobster claw is composed of several individual bracts, and these bracts can bear small true flowers peeking out from their edges, usually in complementary colors such as bright blue or purple, adding to the plant's exotic charm. The bracts are arranged on stout, hanging stems which emerge from the plant's foliage, providing a stark contrast to the lush green leaves. The leaves of the lobster claw are large, shiny, and elongated, resembling those of the banana plant, to which they are related. The leaf edges may occasionally show a tinge of red or yellow, further enhancing the visual appeal of the plant. These leaves grow in a paddle-like fashion, clasping the main stem of the plant, and each can be quite broad and long. Overall, the combination of vividly colored, hanging bracts and large, tropical leaves give the lobster claw an ornamental quality appreciated in gardens and landscapes where the climate is suitable. This plant typically thrives in warm environments with high humidity, making it a popular choice for greenhouses and indoor atriums in colder regions.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Heliconiaceae.
Synonyms
Lobster-Claw, False Bird Of Paradise, Hanging Lobster Claw, Rostrata.
Common names
Bihai rostrata, Heliconia magnifica, Heliconia poeppigiana var. rostrata, Heliconia rostrata var. magnifica.
ToxicityTo humans
The Lobster Claw plant is not known to be toxic to humans. Therefore, there are no common symptoms of poisoning or significant consequences associated with the ingestion of this plant.
To pets
The Lobster Claw plant is also not known to be toxic to pets. Similar to humans, there are no recognized symptoms of poisoning or adverse health consequences that have been commonly reported for pets who might ingest this plant.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Mixed
Height
3-15 feet (0.91-4.57 meters)
Spread
2-6 feet (0.61-1.83 meters)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
10
Native area
South America
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: The Heliconia rostrata, commonly known as the Lobster Claw, is known for its unique and vibrant flowers that add a tropical flair to any garden or landscape design.
- Attracts Wildlife: This plant is particularly attractive to hummingbirds and butterflies, which helps pollinate other plants in the garden.
- Ease of Care: Lobster Claw plants are relatively easy to maintain, requiring minimal pruning and being resistant to most pests and diseases.
- Shade Tolerance: It can thrive in partial shade, providing flexibility in garden placement and landscaping options.
- Tropical Atmosphere: Planting Heliconia rostrata can create a lush, tropical atmosphere in a variety of outdoor settings.
- Cultural Significance: In some cultures, the plant is used in floral arrangements and ceremonies, representing beauty and uniqueness.
- Erosion Control: The robust root system of the Lobster Claw can help stabilize soil and prevent erosion in certain environments.
Medical Properties- This plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Floral Arrangements: Heliconia rostrata, commonly known as lobster-claws, is often used in floral arrangements and bouquets for its striking and exotic appearance.
- Botanical Gardens: Lobster-claws serve as an attractive addition to botanical gardens due to their vibrant colors and unique structure, drawing interest from visitors and providing a tropical aesthetic.
- Educational Tool: In educational settings, the Heliconia rostrata can be used to teach about plant biology, pollination, and tropical ecosystems.
- Habitat for Fauna: The bracts of the lobster-claws can hold water, providing a habitat for small aquatic organisms and a drinking source for birds.
- Cultural Significance: In some cultures, lobster-claws are used in ceremonial decorations or as a symbol in local traditions and artworks.
- Photography: The unique form and color of the Heliconia rostrata make it a popular subject for photographers, especially those specializing in nature and plant photography.
- Textile Patterns: The distinct look of lobster-claws inspires patterns and designs in the textile industry, including clothing and home decor.
- Erosion Control: When planted in groups, Heliconia rostrata can help in controlling soil erosion in some tropical areas due to its dense growth habit.
- Livelihood: In certain regions, growing and selling lobster-claws can be a source of income for farmers and florists due to their popularity in the ornamental plant market.
- Garden Borders: Owing to their tall and upright growth habit, lobster-claws are effective as living borders in gardens to create visual separation and structure.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Lobster Claw is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Lobster Claw is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Tropical Splendor: Heliconia rostrata, commonly known as Lobster Claw, is often associated with the lushness and vibrant life of tropical regions, symbolizing exotic beauty and a sense of paradise.
- Vibrant Energy: The bright colors and unique shape of the Lobster Claw represent energy, vibrancy, and a zest for life.
- Wealth and Prosperity: In some cultures, the Lobster Claw is believed to attract wealth and prosperity to those who grow or keep it.
- Uniqueness and Originality: Due to its distinctive appearance, the Lobster Claw can symbolize individuality, standing out from the crowd, and celebrating what makes one unique.
- Pride and Confidence: The hearty nature and striking stance of the Lobster Claw plant can represent pride and self-confidence, inspiring people to take notice of one's achievements.
WaterLobster-claws prefer consistently moist soil, so regular watering is essential. They should be watered deeply once or twice a week, depending on weather conditions and soil drainage, ensuring that you provide enough water to reach the root zone. During hot or dry periods, watering frequency should increase. When watering Lobster-claws, it is best to use around 1 gallon of water for outdoor plants to maintain adequate moisture levels. Indoor potted specimens may require less water per session; generally, around 8-16 ounces should suffice, depending on the size of the pot and the indoor environment. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so ensure the plant is never left sitting in waterlogged soil.
LightLobster-claws need bright, indirect light to thrive. They should be placed in a location where they receive dappled sunlight or filtered light, such as under a canopy of trees or a shade cloth if grown outdoors. Indoors, they do well near a window with sheer curtains to diffuse direct sunlight. Avoid exposing them to direct afternoon sun as this can scorch their leaves.
TemperatureLobster-claws thrive in warm conditions and are best kept at a temperature range between 65°F and 80°F. They can tolerate a minimum temperature of around 60°F but will suffer if exposed to temperatures below this for extended periods. These tropical plants do not tolerate frost; therefore, they should not be exposed to temperatures below 32°F.
PruningPruning Lobster-claws is mostly done to remove old flower bracts and dead or damaged leaves to maintain plant health and appearance. Pruning should be done after the flowering season has ended. Cut back the flower stalks to the base and trim any unsightly leaves. Pruning can be carried out every few months or as needed to keep the plant looking neat.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for the Lobster Claw is well-draining, rich organic content, such as a mixture of peat, pine bark, and perlite or coarse sand. A soil pH between 5.5 and 6.5 is optimal for this tropical plant to thrive.
RepottingThe Lobster Claw should be repotted every 2 to 3 years to refresh the soil and accommodate its growth. It is best to repot the plant during the spring season.
Humidity & MistingThe Lobster Claw prefers high humidity levels, ideally between 60-80%. This tropical plant thrives in moist and humid conditions similar to its native rainforest habitat.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light and maintain high humidity.
Outdoor
Needs warm, humid conditions, and partial shade.
Hardiness zone
10-11 USDA
Life cycleHeliconia rostrata, commonly known as Lobster Claw, begins its life when a seed germinates in a warm, humid environment, developing roots and a shoot that emerges above the soil. The juvenile plant grows a pseudostem made of tightly wrapped leaf bases, and as it matures, it produces its distinctive large, colorful bracts with smaller flowers that attract pollinators such as hummingbirds. After pollination, these flowers develop into blue-purple fruits containing seeds that can be dispersed by birds. Throughout its life cycle, the Lobster Claw continues to produce new pseudostems from the rhizome, which is its underground stem, creating a clumping habit. The plant reaches maturity and optimal flowering potential within a couple of years and can continue to live and reproduce for many years if the environmental conditions are ideal. Older stems will eventually die back, typically after flowering, making way for new growth from the rhizome.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The most popular method of propagating the Heliconia, commonly known as Lobster-Claw, is through rhizome division. It is best done during the warm, wet months when the plant is actively growing, typically late spring to early summer. The process involves uncovering the underground rhizomes and cutting them into sections with at least one growth node or eye per section using a sharp, clean knife. Each section should ideally be around 3 to 5 inches long. These cuttings are then planted directly into well-draining soil at a depth of about 2 to 3 inches, ensuring the eyes are facing upward. The soil should be kept consistently moist but not waterlogged to encourage root development and new shoot growth.