A clumping tropical perennial with paddle-shaped leaves and spectacular pendent flower spikes of red claw-like bracts tipped yellow and green. A bold feature and cut flower for warm, sheltered gardens.
At a glance
- Plant type: Perennial
- Mature size: 2.5 m H × 1.5 m W
- Aspect: full sun and part shade or morning sun
- Water: consistently moist soil
- Frost: tender
- Maintenance: moderate maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Hanging Lobster Claw
Heliconia rostrata is a fast-growing perennial in the Heliconiaceae family. It reaches around 2.5 m tall and 1.5 m wide at maturity, with evergreen foliage. Red and yellow flowers appear in summer.
Where to grow Hanging Lobster Claw
Hanging Lobster Claw suits tropical and subtropical climates and grows best in full sun and part shade or morning sun. It is frost tender, so protect it from hard frosts or grow it in a sheltered spot or pot.
Soil & planting
Hanging Lobster Claw does best in free-draining soil. Dig in plenty of compost before planting, water in well, and mulch to keep roots cool.
Watering & feeding
Hanging Lobster Claw is consistently moist soil. A feed in spring with a balanced fertiliser keeps growth strong. In its first year, water deeply once or twice a week to settle the roots in, then taper off as it establishes.
Pruning & care
Prune Hanging Lobster Claw after flowering to keep it compact and encourage the next flush of blooms. Overall it is moderate maintenance.
Using Hanging Lobster Claw in the garden
Hanging Lobster Claw earns its place for a feature or specimen planting and pots and courtyard containers. It is equally at home in the ground or a large pot on a balcony or courtyard.
Companion planting & design
For a cohesive, low-care bed, pair Hanging Lobster Claw with other plants that enjoy the same consistently moist soil and tropical climate. Group three or five together for impact rather than dotting single plants through the garden.
Good to know
It is regarded as non-toxic and pet-safe.
Buying Hanging Lobster Claw
Plant Sale lists Hanging Lobster Claw as potted plants. Stock isn't live yet — register your interest using the panel above and we'll email you the moment it lands.