Heliconias (Heliconiaceae) in rural landscapes

Abstract

Objective: To research native, endemic, and introduced heliconia species and their size for use in rural landscaping and to describe the phenology of two species. Design/Methodology/Approach: A bibliographical review was carried out in search for native and endemic heliconia species; a list of the introduced heliconias was developed with field data. The phenology of H. psittacorum and H. wagneriana was evaluated from June 2021 to September 2023. The H. psittacorum and H. wagneriana rhizomes used for this research measured 40 and 60 cm, respectively. They were washed with tap water and then immersed in 1 g L-1 of Captan® 500 for 10 min. Subsequently, they were established in a propagation bed for three weeks and then they were planted in the field, to record the vegetative and flowering stages. Results: According to the bibliography, Mexico has 21 heliconia species and one hybrid; five of which are endemic species, while the rest are native. Eight of them are used in landscaping. H. psittacorum and H. wagneriana had a vegetative period of 10 and 33 weeks, respectively; meanwhile, H. psittacorum flowered at five weeks, while H. wagneriana flowered at eight weeks. Study Limitations/Implications: The phenology of just two species was evaluated in the field. Findings/Conclusions: Only eight out of the 21 species of Mexican heliconias are used in landscaping; however, 20 are introduced cultivars are used in Mexico landscaping. The production of flowers began after 10 (H. psittacorum) and 33 (H. wagneriana) weeks; both species are used in floral designs once they bloom. Heliconias are used in the gardens of rural tourism enterprises and educational institutions.