Family: Heliconiaceae
Author: Ruiz & Pav.
Bibliography: Fl. Peruv. 3: 71 (1802)
Year: 1802
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Heliconia
Vegetable: False
Observations: W. South America
Description
The vibrant and striking Lobster Claw, known scientifically as Heliconia rostrata, is a tropical plant that adds a flamboyant splash of color to the lush landscapes of Western South America. This extraordinary plant, first documented in the early 19th century by Ruiz & Pavón, occupies a notable spot in botanical literature, highlighting its significance and long-standing interest among botanists and horticulturists.
A member of the Heliconiaceae family, Heliconia rostrata is renowned for its distinctive inflorescences that resemble the claws of a lobster—hence its common name. These inflorescences are composed of bright red, yellow, and green bracts that hang gracefully, creating a striking display that not only attracts human admiration but also serves as a lure for pollinators such as hummingbirds. The captivating flower structure is both unique and functional, playing a crucial role in the plant’s reproductive cycle.
Native to the tropical regions of Western South America, the Lobster Claw thrives in warm, humid environments where it can grow to impressive heights, sometimes reaching up to 15 feet. Its large, glossy leaves, which resemble those of banana plants (to which it is related), provide a lush green backdrop that enhances the visual appeal of the colorful bracts. This plant’s robustness and adaptability to tropical climates make it a popular choice for gardeners and landscapers looking to introduce a touch of exotic beauty to their spaces.
The physiological and ecological aspects of Heliconia rostrata also make it an interesting subject of study. It thrives in rich, well-drained soils and requires minimal maintenance once established, making it a resilient and easy-to-grow species. Its complex relationship with the local fauna, particularly its role in the ecosystem as a nectar source for hummingbirds, underlines the intricate connections between flora and fauna in tropical habitats.
Heliconia rostrata’s notable presence in Western South America extends beyond its ecological contributions. It bears cultural significance in various South American regions, where it is often celebrated for its beauty and vibrancy. The plant’s long, hanging flower clusters are sometimes used in local decorations and traditional ceremonies, symbolizing the abundant and colorful life of the tropics.
In summary, the Lobster Claw, or Heliconia rostrata, stands out as a botanical gem within the Heliconiaceae family. Its unique appearance, ecological importance, and cultural value make it a fascinating and cherished plant in the tropical landscapes of Western South America. Whether admired for its beauty, studied for its biological interactions, or utilized for its ornamental value, the Lobster Claw continues to captivate the hearts of many who encounter its remarkable presence.
Common Names
Eng: false bird of paradise, false bird-of-paradise
Swe: hummerklo
En: Lobster Claw, Hanging Heliconia, Hanging lobster claw, Pendant heliconia, False bird of paradise, False bird-of-paradise
Fr: Heliconia rostré
Sv: Hummerklo
Synonyms
- Bihai rostrata ((Ruiz & Pav.) Griggs)
- Heliconia poeppigiana (Eichler ex Petersen)
- Bihai poeppigiana ((Eichler ex Petersen) Kuntze)
Distribution
- Bolivia (native)
- Colombia (native)
- Ecuador (native)
- Peru (native)
- Bangladesh (introduced)
- Comoros (introduced)
- Mexico Southeast (introduced)
- Mexico Southwest (introduced)
- Puerto Rico (introduced)
- Thailand (introduced)
Additional Images
Flower
Taken Dec 3, 2021 by Santos Diego (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jan 29, 2020 by Nascimento Walquiria (cc-by-sa)
Taken Dec 28, 2019 by Häntschel Sascha (cc-by-sa)
Taken Oct 13, 2019 by graaff brij (cc-by-sa)
Taken Feb 11, 2018 by Daniel Mathieu (cc-by-sa)
Leaf
Taken Apr 19, 2022 by Antoine Petit (cc-by-sa)
Taken Dec 3, 2021 by Santos Diego (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jul 14, 2021 by Irma Morales (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jan 25, 2017 by Getúlio Falcão Getúlio Falcão (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jun 7, 2021 by Cruz (cc-by-sa)
Fruit
Taken Nov 23, 2016 by Hugo SANTACREU (cc-by-sa)
Taken Feb 1, 2022 by Adi Krcmar (cc-by-sa)
Taken Oct 24, 2019 by Frédéric Droy (cc-by-sa)
Taken Dec 19, 2021 by sky sky (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jul 28, 2021 by Matheo Ossenberg-Engels (cc-by-sa)
Other
Taken Nov 13, 2021 by Syafiq Hadzir (cc-by-sa)
Taken Mar 2, 2020 by acevedo gustavo (cc-by-sa)
Taken Feb 12, 2017 by lf (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jan 25, 2022 by Porto Ricardo (cc-by-sa)
Taken Sep 18, 2018 by Sergio Sánchez (cc-by-sa)
Habit
Taken Nov 20, 2014 by Willmer Rhea (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jun 20, 2015 by Tela Botanica − Michel RENOU (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jul 6, 2015 by Tela Botanica − Anziz AHMED ABDOU (cc-by-sa)
Taken Dec 8, 2021 by Caliel Carvalho Dos Santos (cc-by-sa)
Taken Nov 27, 2012 by E. Mouysset (cc-by-sa)
Bark
Taken Jun 9, 2019 by siviero sophia (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jul 30, 2022 by Victoria Cutter (cc-by-sa)
Taken Apr 30, 2019 by Balbino Morais Mateus (cc-by-sa)
Taken Sep 17, 2021 by Ricko Skywriter (cc-by-sa)
Taken Dec 11, 2020 by daniela gontier (cc-by-sa)
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
Sources
- WFO (No URL)
- IPNI (No URL)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/2760967)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:796978-1)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Heliconia rostrata Ruiz & Pav.)
Specifications
Growth habit>: Forb/herb