Heliconia aemygdiana

Native from southern Colombia to central Bolivia and Brazil, this perennial herb grows from underground rhizomes in wet tropical habitats. Broad leaves rise on leafy shoots that can reach about five to six feet tall. The upright flowering structure combines vivid pink to lavender bracts with a contrasting yellow axis. Small green flowers emerge from the bracts, which provide much of the visible color. Rounded fruits begin green and become glossy blue as they mature. The plant grows well in partially shaded forest conditions. Photographed in Colombia.