Hawaiian Flower Guide
Heliconia
Learn about heliconia, a bold tropical plant related to banana with tall leaf stalks and colorful bracts that hide small flowers. In Hawaii, many heliconia species add dramatic color to gardens and rainforest-style landscapes.
Heliconia Overview
Closely related to the banana, the heliconia has a sturdy leaf stalk that can grow up to 20 feet (6 m) tall. The actual flowers are rather small, growing inside large, brightly colored bracts. Heliconia is native to South America. At least 22 species can be found in Hawaii.