As usual, I had been quite busy that I missed one of my heliconias that was in bloom in the tropical garden in my RC. Wonder if the residents spotted the bloom since it is quite hidden by the leaves of other heliconias.
I was pleasantly surprised that my Heliconia episcopalis ‘Red Orange Spear’ had sent up its characteristic red orange inflorescence. The inflorescence reminds me of a burning flame and it is somewhat different from the many others we are familiar with. The bracts are so closely spaced together that the whole thing looks like a lollipop!
This heliconia adopts a cannoid growth habit and can be quite prolific with its blooms once it is established and well-fertilised. I grow mine under semi-shade and it attains a height of about 1 to 1.5 m and I fertilise liberally with compost and organic fertiliser.
What makes me happier is that another new inflorescence is emerging on the same plant!
nice episco. Got a pure orange form you know right?
Oh yes… I am aware but this cultivar cannot be obtained in Singapore nurseries. Probably will order a rhizome or two from overseas when my pocket’s fuller