Heliconiaceae, commonly known as heliconias or “lobster-claw plants,” are striking flowering plants native to the tropical rainforests of Central and South America. They are famous for their brightly coloured, claw-shaped bracts, which can be red, orange, yellow, or pink, and often look like they belong in a painter’s palette. These bracts protect the tiny flowers inside and also hold water, which attracts hummingbirds and other pollinators.

Heliconias are an important part of the rainforest ecosystem, providing food and shelter for birds, insects, and even small frogs. Their dramatic appearance and ecological role make them one of the most recognisable and beloved plants in tropical forests.

• BOOK YOUR TICKETS