Distribution: Heliconias are mainly native to the American tropics, from the Tropic of Cancer in the central region of Mexico to the Tropic of Capricorn in South America, including the Caribbean region. Most species inhabit humid regions, although some have been found in seasonally dry regions.
Characteristics: They are plants formed by a number of rhizomatous branches with different pattern of vegetative colonization; Their generally straight stems are produced in different numbers according to the species. Each stem is formed by a pseudo-stem and leaves often with terminal inflorescence. The most visible characteristic of a fertile Heliconia is its inflorescence full of color, which ranges from red to yellow, going through colors such as hot pink and even green.
Importance: It has fruits that are very attractive to the birds that disperse them, also the heliconias are among the most popular tropical species in cultivation as ornamental plants for their durability and the color of their bracts, which are the most colorful organs, usually of primary colors or mixed, which has caused its demand to be increasing and are one of the most exported plant groups.
These are the species of heliconias native to the Lake Yojoa region:
- Heliconia bihai
- Heliconia humilis
- Heliconia latispath
- Heliconia librata
- Heliconia spissa