Rank Species | Genus Heliconia Higher classification Lobster-claws | |
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Similar Lobster‑claws, Heliconia caribaea, Heliconia psittacorum, Heliconia rostrata, Heliconia stricta | ||
Heliconia bihai arawak
Heliconia bihai (red palulu) of the Heliconiaceae family is an erect herb typically growing taller than 1.5 m. It is native to northern South America and the West Indies. It is especially common in northern Brazil and the Guianas but also found in Hispaniola, Jamaica, the Lesser Antilles, Puerto Rico, Trinidad, Venezuela and Colombia. Other names by which the plant is commonly known include balisier and macawflower.
Contents
Platanillo heliconia bihai
Uses
This plant is used as an ornamental plant in hot regions with a humid climate (USDA zone 9-11), and is typically pollinated by bats and hummingbirds.
This upward facing flower of the Heliconia family, which acts as a cup, is a natural source of rain water for birds and insects.
Use as a symbol
This plant is used as the symbol to represent the People's National Movement political party of Trinidad and Tobago, as well as by the Martinique Progressive Party (Parti Progressiste Martiniquais) of the French Overseas Department of Martinique, in the West Indies.
