Gingers and heliconias are the beating heart of Wet Tropics gardening, and at El Arish Tropical Exotics we specialise in varieties that thrive in Far North Queensland’s warm, humid climate. These bold, architectural plants bring instant rainforest impact, transforming gardens with lush foliage, vibrant flowers, and a sense of tropical abundance. Whether you’re creating a dense jungle backdrop, a colourful feature bed, or a wildlife‑friendly understory, our FNQ‑proven selection offers reliability, resilience, and year‑round beauty.

In the Wet Tropics, gingers and heliconias perform exceptionally well thanks to the region’s rich soils, monsoonal rains, and naturally sheltered microclimates. We focus on non‑invasive, clumping varieties that suit residential gardens, acreage properties, and cassowary‑safe landscapes. Many of our selections provide nectar for pollinators, shelter for small wildlife, and seasonal colour that enhances the ecological value of your garden. These plants are ideal for gardeners wanting a lush, low‑maintenance tropical look without compromising environmental responsibility.

Heliconias are known for their dramatic bracts in shades of red, orange, pink, and gold. They flower reliably in FNQ conditions and make excellent cut flowers. Heliconias thrive in part shade to filtered sun, making them perfect for rainforest‑style gardens or areas protected from harsh afternoon light.

At El Arish Tropical Exotics, we grow our plants locally so they’re already acclimatised to FNQ’s humidity, rainfall patterns, and seasonal extremes. Our stock is carefully selected for vigour, disease resistance, and suitability to Mission Beach and the Cassowary Coast. We provide guidance on planting, mulching, and positioning to help you create thriving, climate‑resilient tropical gardens that feel immersive and alive.

Whether you’re a home gardener, landscaper, or collector, our range of gingers and heliconias offers something for every space — from compact courtyard varieties to large, dramatic species that anchor a full rainforest design. Explore our collection to discover plants that bring colour, structure, and lushness to your FNQ garden.

They are generally found in heavily forested areas along creek banks or in disturbed areas. Most Heliconias will live and grow in up to 40% shade. They like high humidity, bright light, moist soil rich in organic matter, a protected position and good drainage. Heliconias are heavy feeders and appreciate rich soil.

Rhizomes should be planted with the top protruding out of the soil. Water well and mulch, re-water as the soil dries out. After flowering, cut back the spent flower stems to make room for new growth. As tropical plants, Heliconias prefer temperatures over 20C. However, there are several heliconias that are suitable for coastal areas all the way down to Sydney.

If possible we recommend potting your rhizomes up. They can be planted out when they shoot and establish roots. If you are in a particularly cold area it is best to purchase your heliconias in spring so that they have a full growing season before encountering winter conditions.

You will find more info on care on our blog as well as info for Brisbane growers

We've also created a heliconia trouble shooting guide

Please note: Most of our heliconias are sent as rhizomes.

Caring for Heliconias in the Cassowary Coast, Far North Queensland and South East Queensland

Heliconias are one of the most iconic plants of the Wet Tropics, known for their bold foliage, vibrant bracts and ability to create instant rainforest atmosphere. Whether you are gardening on the Cassowary Coast, anywhere across Far North Queensland, or in the warmer pockets of South East Queensland, heliconias thrive when given the right combination of warmth, moisture and rich soil. This guide brings together region‑specific advice to help you grow strong, healthy, long‑flowering plants that suit both home gardens and acreage landscapes.

Climate and Position

Heliconias love warmth and humidity, making them perfectly suited to FNQ’s monsoonal climate and the sheltered, fertile landscapes of the Cassowary Coast. In South East Queensland, they grow beautifully when planted in protected microclimates away from cold winter winds.

Choose a position with:

Filtered sun to part shade (morning sun is ideal)
Shelter from harsh afternoon heat
Protection from strong winds
Consistent moisture, especially during dry spells

In FNQ, heliconias often grow faster and taller thanks to naturally high humidity and warm nights. In SE QLD, mulching and microclimate selection are key to achieving the same lush results.

Soil and Mulching

Heliconias thrive in deep, rich, free‑draining soil with plenty of organic matter. On the Cassowary Coast and across FNQ, many gardens already have ideal volcanic or rainforest‑influenced soils. In SE QLD, improving sandy or clay soils with compost, aged manure and chunky mulch makes a dramatic difference.

Mulch heavily to:

Retain moisture
Protect rhizomes from temperature fluctuations
Build soil health over time

A 10–15 cm layer of mulch mimics rainforest floor conditions and keeps your heliconias thriving year‑round.

Watering

Heliconias are moisture lovers, especially during establishment. In FNQ’s wet season, rainfall usually does the work for you. In SE QLD and during FNQ’s dry season, water deeply two to three times per week until plants are well established. Mature clumps tolerate short dry periods but perform best with consistent moisture.

Feeding

For strong flowering and lush foliage, feed heliconias with:

A balanced slow‑release fertiliser in spring and summer
Liquid seaweed or fish emulsion every four to six weeks
Extra potassium for improved flowering

FNQ’s nutrient‑rich soils often need less supplementation, while SE QLD gardens benefit from regular feeding to maintain vigour.

Pruning and Maintenance

Heliconias are naturally tidy plants, but a little maintenance keeps them looking their best.

Remove old or spent canes at ground level
Trim damaged leaves after storms or strong winds
Thin clumps every two to three years to maintain airflow and encourage fresh growth

This is especially important in humid FNQ conditions where airflow helps prevent fungal issues.

Regional Notes

Cassowary Coast and FNQ:
Heliconias flourish in the warm, wet, fertile conditions of the Wet Tropics. They grow quickly, flower reliably and integrate beautifully into wildlife‑friendly gardens. Many varieties provide shelter for small fauna and blend seamlessly into cassowary‑safe landscapes.

South East Queensland:
Choose cold‑tolerant varieties, plant in sheltered microclimates and mulch deeply to protect rhizomes during cooler months. With the right care, heliconias grow just as lushly as they do in the tropics.

Final Thoughts

Heliconias are one of the most rewarding plants for gardeners across the Cassowary Coast, FNQ and SE QLD. With rich soil, consistent moisture and a little seasonal care, they deliver year‑round tropical beauty and a sense of rainforest abundance. Whether you are creating a dense jungle garden, a colourful feature bed or a wildlife‑friendly landscape, heliconias bring structure, colour and FNQ authenticity to any space.