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Heliconia longa

Name

Family Name
Genus Epithet
Species Epithet
Name Status (botanical)
Common Names

Classifications and Characteristics

Plant Division Angiosperms (Flowering Seed Plants)
Plant Growth Form Herbaceous Plant
Lifespan (in Singapore) Perennial
Mode of Nutrition Autotrophic

Biogeography

Native Distribution Honduras to Ecuador
Native Habitat Terrestrial
Preferred Climate Zone Tropical
Local Conservation Status Non-native

Description and Ethnobotany

Growth Form It is a large herbaceous plant with thick trunk-like pseudostems which are formed by tightly packed leaf sheaths.
Foliage Its leaves are long and wide, similar to the banana leaves. The upper surface is green and the lower surface is usually covered by a white waxy coating.
Flowers Heliconia longa produces long pendulous inflorescence which can last for months. The bracts and rachis are bright red. The true flowers are yellow and tubular, mostly hidden inside the bracts.

Landscaping Features

Desirable Plant Features Ornamental Flowers, Ornamental Foliage
Landscape Uses Parks & Gardens

Fauna, Pollination and Dispersal

Pollination Method(s) Biotic (Fauna)

Plant Care and Propagation

Light Preference Full Sun, Semi-Shade
Water Preference Lots of Water, Moderate Water, Occasional Misting
Rootzone Tolerance Moist Soils, Fertile Loamy Soils

Foliar

Mature Foliage Colour(s) Green

Floral (Angiosperm)

Flower Colour(s) Red, Yellow / Golden
Flower Texture(s) Thick / Fleshy
Flower Grouping Cluster / Inflorescence
Flowering Period Free-Flowering

Image Repository

Images

Others

Master ID 30630
Species ID 4939
Flora Disclaimer The information in this website has been compiled from reliable sources, such as reference works on medicinal plants. It is not a substitute for medical advice or treatment and NParks does not purport to provide any medical advice. Readers should always consult his/her physician before using or consuming a plant for medicinal purposes.
Species record last updated on: 15 October 2021.
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