Strelitzia reginae (Bird of Paradise)

Screaming out for attention with its unique flowers, Strelitzia reginae, also know as Bird of Paradise, brings a sensational tropical accent to the garden or in a sunny interior room. This evergreen perennial forms a clump of large, broadly oval, long-stalked, gray-green leaves, which arise from an underground stem (rhizome). They contrast nicely with its beautiful crested flowers. Emerging from a horizontal green and pink beak-like spathe, brilliant orange and vivid blue flowers bloom in succession, resembling the crest on a bird’s head. Individual flowers last for about a week, but the spathe holds 5 to 7 flowers, guaranteeing a long-lasting display. They arise from tall stems, up to 6 ft. tall (180 cm), just above the foliage and appear anytime from late fall to late spring, depending on latitude and climate. Highly prized and widely cultivated as an ornamental for its exotic flowers, Bird of Paradise has a striking appearance when not in bloom due to the large glaucous leaves, which resemble those of banana plants.

Strelitzia reginae is native to the southern and eastern parts of the Cape Province and northern Natal in South Africa.

What is Special about Bird of Paradise?

1. Name: native to South Africa, this popular ornamental plant gets its name from its distinctive flower, which resembles the head of a brightly colored tropical bird.
2. Flowers: The flower is actually made up of three bright orange sepals and three blue petals, with a single upright white petal emerging from the center.
3. Foliage: The plant is a member of the banana family, and its leaves are large and banana-like in appearance.
4. Size: The plant can grow up to 4-6 ft. high (120-180 cm) and 3-4 ft. wide (90-120 cm), making it a dramatic addition to any garden or landscape.
5. Versatility: The bird of paradise’s striking flowers make it a great choice for a focal point in the garden. It is perfect for poolside plantings, garden borders, along walkways, patio containers, or as a houseplant.
6. Drought tolerant: Once established, bird of paradise is drought tolerant and can withstand extended periods without irrigation.
7. Maintenance: The bird of paradise plant is a popular choice for tropical and subtropical gardens and as a houseplant, as it is easy to care for.
8. Air-purifying: The bird of paradise plant is also known for its air-purifying properties, making it a popular choice for indoor spaces.
9. Medicine: In addition to its ornamental value, the bird of paradise plant has been used for medicinal purposes by indigenous peoples in South Africa.
10. Award: Strelitzia reginae is the recipient of the prestigious Award of Garden Merit of the Royal Horticultural Society.
11. Cut flowers: Excellent cut flowers with a long vase life (up to 2 weeks).
12. Birds: In its native habitat, the bird of paradise plant is pollinated by sunbirds, which are small, brightly colored birds that are attracted to the plant’s bright flowers.
13. Deer/rabbits: Bird of paradise is deer and rabbit resistant. It is toxic to dogs, cats, and horses.

Overall, the bird of paradise plant is a unique and fascinating plant that is sure to add a touch of the tropics to any garden or home.

How to Grow Bird of Paradise?

1. Climate: Bird of paradise thrives in warm, tropical climates and is hardy to USDA zones 10 to 12. It can be grown outdoors in a frost-free location with protection from strong winds. While freezes will kill back the foliage, this plant will slowly rejuvenate over 18 to 24 months if the cold doesn’t kill the root system. Bird of paradise can also be grown in cooler climates as a houseplant or in a greenhouse.
2. Light: Bird of paradise prefers full sun to partial shade. In hot, direct sun, it may benefit from some afternoon shade to protect it from scorching.
3. Soil: Bird of paradise prefers well-draining, slightly acidic soil that is rich in organic matter. It can also tolerate slightly alkaline soil.
4. Water: The plant prefers consistently moist soil but can tolerate short periods of drought. Overwatering can cause root rot, so it is important to water sparingly and allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
5. Fertilizer: Use a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season (spring and summer) to promote healthy growth and flowering.
6. Pruning: The plant does not require regular pruning. Cut off old damaged leaves in the spring. These should be cut right down to the base with a sharp pair of secateurs.
7. Repotting: Do not re-pot mature plants too often, as the fleshy roots can easily be damaged by disturbance.
8. Propagation: Bird of Paradise is usually propagated by dividing the plants in spring or using suckers produced at the base.

Overall, the bird of paradise is a low-maintenance plant that can thrive in a variety of growing conditions. With the right care and growing conditions, it can produce stunning blooms and add a touch of the tropics to any garden.

Where to Grow Bird of Paradise?

Bird of paradise, or Strelitzia reginae, is a unique and eye-catching plant that can add a touch of the tropics to any garden. Here are some ideas on how to use bird of paradise in your garden:

1. Focal point: The striking flowers make it a great choice for a focal point in the garden. Plant it as a stand-alone specimen plant or in a group to create a stunning visual display.
2. Borders: Use it to create a border or edge along a walkway or garden bed. Pair it with other tropical plants or complementary colors for a cohesive look.
3. Container gardening: Bird of paradise can also be grown in containers, which makes it a great choice for adding a tropical touch to a patio, deck, or balcony. Use a large container to give the plant room to grow, and pair it with other tropical plants or decorative elements for a complete look.
4. Poolside planting: The bird of paradise’s tropical look makes it a great choice for planting around a pool or other water features. Its large, banana-like leaves can create a lush, jungle-like feel.
5. Accent plant: Use it to accent other tropical plants in your garden. Its unique shape and bright colors can provide a contrast to other plants and help them stand out.
6. Houseplant: Bird of paradise can make a beautiful and exotic houseplant with the right care and growing conditions. With bright, indirect light, warm temperatures, and regular watering and fertilizing, it can thrive and add a touch of the tropics to your indoor space.

Pest and Diseases

Bird of paradise is a relatively pest and disease-resistant plant, but it is important to monitor it regularly for signs of infestation or disease. By taking proactive measures to prevent and treat these issues, you can keep your bird of paradise healthy and thriving for years to come.

1. Mealybugs: These insects are small, white, cottony-looking bugs that suck the sap from the plant, causing it to wilt and become discolored. They can be treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
2. Scale: Scale insects are small, immobile insects that attach themselves to the leaves and stems of the plant. They can be treated with horticultural oil or insecticidal soap.
3. Spider mites: These tiny mites are difficult to see with the naked eye but can cause webbing and yellowing of the leaves. They can be treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
4. Root rot: This is a fungal disease that can affect bird of paradise if the soil is too wet or poorly drained. To prevent root rot, be sure to plant the bird of paradise in well-draining soil and water sparingly.
5. Leaf spot: Leaf spot is a fungal disease that can cause yellow or brown spots on the leaves. It can be treated with a fungicide.