| Storage Temperature: 55 - 65 F |
| Ethylene Sensitive: No |
| Description: Dramatic brilliant bracts of florets
densely packed together on thick stems. The flowers may be upright or drooping. |
| Colors: Orange, red, yellow, pink and some
bi-colors. |
| Botanical Facts: Heliconia is named after Mount
Helicon, the seat of the Muses, the nine goddesses of the arts and sciences in Greek
mythology. Like their god Apollo, the Muses supposedly remained young and beautiful
forever. Much like the long lasting and beautiful heliconia flowers. |
| Design Notes: Heliconia are distinctive and should
be used as the dominate flower in a floral arrangement. When designing heliconia in
floral foam, be sure to use chicken wire or other additional support for the very heavy
stems. |
| Purchasing Hints: Purchase stems with full
color. Heliconias do not continue to develop once they are cut. Avoid stems
that are obviously dried out or with black spots on the stems or bracts. |
| Conditioning: Cut three inches of the stem
under water with a sharp knife. Hydrate in a solution of hot (100 - 110 F) water and
commercial floral preservative / floral food for two hours before storage or usage. |
| Additional Notes: Heliconia are very chill
sensitive and should never be held at temperatures below 55 F. Black spots on the
stem may indicate exposure to the cold. |
