Heliconia stricta

Native to tropical South America, this perennial herb forms clumps from underground rhizomes. Its broad leaves have long stalks and pointed tips. Upright flower clusters bear smooth, boat-shaped bracts in two rows, enclosing smaller tubular flowers. Garden selections vary in stature and bract color, often combining red or orange with yellow and green margins. It is grown in tropical gardens and for cut flowers, and clumps can be propagated by division. It has been introduced to Cuba and Puerto Rico. Photographed in the department of Quindío, Colombia.