When visiting Casa Marimba in the Laguna de Apoyo, many people are enchanted by our lush garden and the variety of plants surrounding them. One of the most beautiful flowers you can see on the property is called Heliconia. Also known as Lobster Claws, Heliconia is a genus of tropical flowering plants that are native to Central and South America. These plants are known for their stunning, colorful bracts that resemble the claws of a lobster, hence their nickname. In Nicaragua, Heliconia plants can be found growing in the wild, as well as in private gardens and botanical parks.
One of the most interesting things about Heliconia is the fact that the bracts, not the actual flowers, are the showstoppers. The flowers themselves are small and usually tucked inside the bracts, which can be red, yellow, green, or orange, depending on the species. The bracts can be upright or drooping, and they are often arranged in spiral clusters that are eye-catching and unique.
Another interesting fact about Heliconia is that they are not only beautiful, but also play an important role in the ecosystem. They are an important food source for hummingbirds, monkeys, and other animals, and their leaves are used for thatching roofs and for wrapping food for cooking.
In Nicaragua, Heliconia plants can be found growing in a variety of habitats, from lowland rainforests to high elevation cloud forests. Some species are quite rare and are only found in specific regions, while others are more widespread and can be found in many parts of the country. Unlike other species, they grow almost all year round, so your chances of spotting them in our little paradise is fairly high!
At Casa Marimba, our lush garden contains several Heliconia plants, for the delight of your sight. Come for a Day Pass and just walk around, or settle in one of our hammocks to admire them. And for a deeper adventure, check out our rooms and book your stay with us!
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