PlantaeHighest rank in taxonomy. Groups all life into domains: Animalia, Plantae, Fungi, etc.IUCN LCInternational Union for Conservation of Nature — the world authority on species extinction risk, using standardized criteria. — Least Concern — widespread and abundant; not at immediate risk of extinction.In ProgressCurrent stage of this record in the editorial review workflow. Recent Sighting
Heliconia wagneriana
Easter Heliconia / Wagner's Heliconia
Petersen, 1896
Detailed Texts Multi-lang
Heliconia wagneriana is a large perennial herbaceous plant, iconic for its erect, structural inflorescences of vibrant colors. It can reach heights of 2 to 4 meters (6-13 feet), with large, oblong, and leathery leaves resembling those of a banana plant, supported by long, robust petioles. Its most distinctive feature is the erect inflorescence, composed of distichous (arranged in two opposite rows) overlapping and deeply concave bracts. These bracts are usually cream or pale yellow at the base, turning deep pink to red towards the margins, with a thin green line at the top edge. The true flowers are small, white or greenish, and remain hidden inside the water-filled bracts. Its fruits are fleshy drupes that turn a brilliant metallic blue when ripe. It is a fundamental species in the biological landscape of secondary forests and riverbanks in the Neotropics.
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TaxonomyBiological classification ranks placing this species within the tree of life, from Kingdom down to Genus.
PhylumRank below Kingdom. Groups organisms sharing a fundamental body plan (e.g., Chordata = vertebrates and some invertebrates).Tracheophyta
ClassRank below Phylum. Subdivides by structural traits (e.g., Mammalia, Aves, Reptilia, Insecta).Liliopsida
OrderRank below Class. Groups related families sharing common ancestry (e.g., Carnivora, Primates).Zingiberales
FamilyRank below Order. Groups closely related genera (e.g., Felidae = cats, Canidae = dogs).Heliconiaceae
GenusRank just above Species. The first word in the two-part binomial scientific name.Heliconia
Taxonomic AuthorityThe scientist who first formally described and published this species, followed by the year of publication.Petersen, 1896
Record Completeness
91%Coming soon
Ecology & StatusHow this species lives: habitat preferences, diet, behavior, population status, and role in its ecosystem.
OriginWhether the species is native (evolved here), endemic (found only here), or introduced by human activity.
Native
Population TrendDirection of change in population size over time: increasing, stable, decreasing, or unknown.
Stable
Trophic RolePosition in the food chain: producer, herbivore, carnivore, omnivore, decomposer, or parasite.
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Growth HabitPhysical form and structure of the plant: tree, shrub, herb, vine, epiphyte, aquatic, etc.
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Leaf TypeLeaf characteristics: deciduous (seasonal shed), evergreen, simple, compound, needle-like, etc.
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Flowering SeasonTime of year when this species typically reproduces or flowers.
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Recent SightingsWhether this species has been observed in the wild in Costa Rica within recent years.
Yes
Habitat SummaryOverview of the specific ecosystems and environments where this species is found in Costa Rica. Multi-lang
It inhabits wet and very wet tropical lowland forests, generally from sea level up to 600 meters (2,000 feet) in altitude. It prefers rich, deep soils with constant high humidity, frequently found in forest clearings, riverbanks, swamps, and disturbed areas with good solar exposure. In Costa Rica, it is common on both slopes, especially in the Caribbean and the Central and Southern Pacific.Light & Water NeedsSunlight intensity and moisture levels this plant needs to grow and reproduce successfully. Multi-lang
Information not available in English. Help us expand this record!BehaviourDaily activity patterns, movement, territory use, foraging style, and seasonal behavioral changes. Multi-lang
It is a keystone species for maintaining bird biodiversity. By flowering for several months, it provides a constant energy resource for hummingbirds. Its bracts act as tiny aquariums hosting insect larvae and other organisms, creating a miniature food web within the plant. Its growth is rhizomatous, allowing it to expand and form dense colonies that protect the soil from erosion.Toxicity / UsesToxic compounds present and their documented effects on humans or other organisms. Multi-lang
Information not available in English. Help us expand this record!Physical Measures
Length (cm)
200.0 - 400.0 cm
Reproductive StructuresFlowers, fruits, and seeds — the reproductive organs and their seasonal appearance.
Flower Photos (Max 2)
No imageFruit Photos (Max 2)
No imageEvolutionary AdaptationsInherited traits and behaviors that improve the species' survival and reproduction in its specific environment. Multi-lang
Phytotelmata Bracts (Water tanks): The deeply concave bracts of the inflorescence collect and retain rainwater. This aquatic microenvironment protects the flowers and young fruits from desiccation and terrestrial herbivores, while also serving as a habitat for a specialized community of microorganisms and invertebrates (phytotelmata).
Specialization for Ornithophily: The tubular shape of the flowers and the erect orientation of the inflorescence are perfectly adapted for pollination by curved-billed hummingbirds (such as hermits). The vibrant color acts as a long-distance visual signal in the dense green understory.
Main ThreatsDocumented pressures reducing the population: habitat loss, hunting, disease, climate change, and invasive species. Multi-lang
Extraction for the floral trade: Due to its beauty and long post-cut life, it is frequently extracted from its natural habitat for sale. While commercially grown, unregulated wild collection can weaken local populations.
Interesting FactsSurprising or notable facts that highlight what makes this species unique or ecologically important. Multi-lang
Biological Easter clock: In Central America, its common name 'Easter Heliconia' comes from its flowering peak, which almost always coincides with Holy Week, filling roadsides with festive colors.