A Superior Form of Heliconia rostrata

Amy Donovan, Heliconia Society of South Florida


Heliconia rostrata	Heliconia rostrata cv. ‘Isola’

Heliconia rostrata is one of the most popular heliconias available. It is also one of the easiest to grow, whether in sun or shade. I've had it bloom anywhere from three to eight feet tall.

There are many cultivars of H. rostrata to choose from. The most common available variety is known only as H. rostrata, with no cultivar name. The most spectacular cultivar of H. rostrata is ‘Isola’, named by Joseph Fondeur for his mother. The bracts are very deep, tightly held together by a curvy, pink rachis with the lip edged in green. The inflorescences on a mature clump can easily reach three to four feet in length. H. rostrata ‘Isola’ is sometimes available at the annual Heliconia Society of South Florida sale. We hope to see you there.

Garden Views Spring 2004