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Unlocking its potential
- Heliconias are tropical plants related to bananas, cannas and gingers. There are about 100 different individual species, and most species then have a large number of hybrids and cultivars, with flower styles varying significantly from the original.
- The actual Heliconia flower is fairly insignificant. What most people would call the 'flower' is actually a group of colourful specialised leaves, called bracts. The true flowers are hidden inside these bracts.
- Heliconia leaves look more or less like banana leaves. They are generally green, but some are tinged slightly with colour (particularly when young) and sometimes the leaves and stems are coloured or patterned slightly.
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PANAJI
Heliconias are known for its multi-colour bracts and varied flower structure. Although its commercial value is immense, a majority of Goans are, however, unaware of its potential, with only two sellers known to be cultivating the plant in the state.
With an aim of creating an awareness about this exotic plant, the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) recently organized a one-day workshop encouraging farmers to take up Heliconia cultivation.
The tropical plant is known to flourish under humid conditions. It is usually planted between coconut trees, and does not require much labour and effort.
“Goa is known to have over 25,000 hectares in coconut plantations. The Heliconia is known to be resistant to pests and diseases, thus making ideal for cultivation. And it grows the best when planted between coconut trees,” said Dr. M. Thangam, senior scientist of vegetable science at the research institute.
Commercially, the flower has huge market potential in the state, of which the locals are unaware. Currently, the state imports 95 per cent of Heliconias from other states.
Elaborating about its value, local florist and businessman, Lalit Agarwal, said depending on the species, a Heliconia flower can fetch anywhere between Rs 10 and Rs 200.
While acknowledging the craze for cultivatingGerberas among most farmers, ICAR director Dr. N.P. Singh said the government should consider including Heliconia in its list of subsidised plants so that people can develop an interest in its cultivation.
“The problem with Gerberas is the price for each flower varies through different seasons. During the off season, these flowers are sold for as little as 50 paisa, while otherwise it is priced at Rs 18 per flower. Heliconias have a much higher commercial value, that's why the government needs to look into it. They should add it to the list of plants for which a subsidy is provided,” said Dr. Singh.
He added that the aim of organizing 'Heliconia Day' is to increase awareness in the ease of cultivating the plant. The institute has promised to provide help and work with people interested in growing the crop commercially.
