Heliconia Latispatha | 5 seeds | Lobster Claw

Please find for sale 5 Heliconia Latispatha seeds, also known as Lobster Claw, Toucan Beak and False Bird of Paradise.

Heliconia are evergreen perennials native to Central and Southern America. Their large glossy leaves are similar to banana plants and can grow to 120cm long. Their flowers are similar to bird of paradise (Strelizia) blooms, but instead of having upright flowerheads at the top of a stem like a bird’s plumage, heliconia flowers are arranged alternately all the way along the stem. As they are not frost hardy, in the UK, they are grown as impressive specimens for heated greenhouses and conservatories..

INSTRUCTIONS - TO SAVE PAPER I NO LONGER SEND OUT WRITTEN INSTRUCTIONS TO CUSTOMERS. INSTRUCTIONS ARE BELOW SO PLEASE BOOKMARK THIS PAGE. FEEL FREE TO MESSAGE ME WITH ANY GROWING QUESTIONS

Germination Guide

Seed Preparation

Clean: Remove any pulp from the fresh seed by soaking in water, changing the water frequently.
Soak: Soak the hard seeds for 1-2 days in warm water or, for added acidification, apple juice to help break the tough outer coat. 

Sowing
Medium: Use a moist, well-draining seed starting mix or sphagnum moss.
Container: Place seeds in a clear, sealed container (like a zip-top bag or propagator) to lock in humidity.
Depth: Plant seeds about 1/2 to 3/4 inch deep. 

Environment
Temperature: Maintain warm temperatures, ideally between 72-80°F (22-27°C), using a heat mat if necessary.
Light: Bright, indirect light is best; avoid direct, intense sun during germination.
Moisture: Keep the medium consistently moist but not waterlogged; mist regularly if needed.