Heliconia 'Choconiana' (Heliconia psittacorum)

Heliconia ‘Choconiana’ features incredibly vibrant pinkish-red bracts that make it a real showstopper in the garden. This heliconia blooms almost continuously to provide long-lasting color.

How to Grow

Native to tropical regions, Heliconia ‘Choconiana’ thrives in zones 10-11 and makes an excellent houseplant elsewhere. Plant in rich, well-draining soil in a sunny to partly shaded location. Provide plenty of moisture and fertilize regularly during the growing season. Cut back old stems to encourage new growth.

Care Tips

Heliconia ‘Choconiana’ appreciates humid conditions. Mist the leaves frequently or grow near a humidifier. Water when the top few inches of soil become dry. Feed with a balanced fertilizer every 2-4 weeks while actively growing. Bring indoors before first frost.

Uses

With its vibrant colored bracts, Heliconia ‘Choconiana’ makes a stunning tropical accent in beds, borders, and containers. It also works beautifully cut for floral arrangements.

Planting Tips

Space heliconia plants 36-48 inches apart in the garden. Dig a hole twice the width of the root ball and plant at the same level it was growing in the nursery pot. Backfill with soil and water thoroughly after planting.

Maintenance

Remove spent flowers by cutting back the stem to an outward facing leaf node. This encourages the plant to produce new stems and flowers. Divide clumps every few years to promote vigor.

Pests and Diseases

Heliconia ‘Choconiana’ is resistant to most pests and diseases. Ensure good air circulation and avoid overwatering to prevent issues with bacterial or fungal diseases. Control scales and mealybugs with horticultural oil or insecticidal soap sprays.