Heliconia Caribaea ‘Rio’ is a tall growing variety reaching up to 4 metres in height, depending on conditions.
With a clump forming habit this attractive variety will flower from summer right trough until autumn, although it can flower in spring as well.
Best is a tropical to sub tropical climate, if you are keen enough you can grow this colourful variety as far south as Sydney. You will need a warm protected position, a little micro climate that replicated the warmth and humidity it grows in naturally.
This is a variety that is best in part shade in warmer climates, with a little more sun in cooler areas.
The flowers are a brilliant red, the foliage a good mid green, held upright on tall stems.
With such good foliage, it can be used as a screening plant, it is well suited to any tropical type garden design, balinese style gardens or simply used as a feature plant.
Heliconia caribaea ‘Rio’ Care
General care is the same as for most Heiconia varieties.
- You can grow Heliconia Caribaea ‘Rio’ in containers.
- Try a humus rich soil, one that retains some moisture.
- A good application of an organic fertiliser each year will keep the plant happy.
- Part shade is generally best, and in good conditions the growth rate is fast.
Varieties
Heliconia Caribaea has been widely hybridised and is available in a number of flower colours under different names. Look for named varieties such as :
- Heliconia bihai x Caribaea ‘Hot Rio Nights’
Heliconia Caribaea ‘Rio’ varieties are available for sale from the following nurseries
Australia's finest bamboo display gardens. Non-invasive clumping varieties at competitive prices for screens, windbreaks, garden ornamentals, timber and shoots. Small suburban garden right up to the commercial growers. Can ship to anywhere in Australia. Hervey Bay, QLD. OPEN 7 DAYS
www.bambooland.com.au