Bird of Paradise (Strelitzia reginae) is an evergreen clumping perennial famed for its exotic crane-shaped blooms in fiery orange and electric blue, perched on tall stalks above broad banana-like leaves. Native to South Africa, it thrives in warm, frost-free Indian gardens and makes an arresting accent in beds, borders and large patio pots. Mature clumps can flower for many weeks, and the blooms are prized cut flowers with excellent vase life. It is slow to establish but rewards patience with a long-lived, low-maintenance tropical showpiece that loves heat and full sun.
Specifications
| Family |
Strelitziaceae |
| Native region |
South Africa |
| Mature height |
1.2-1.8 m |
| Mature spread |
1-1.5 m |
| Growth rate |
Slow |
| Foliage |
Evergreen, large grey-green paddle-shaped leaves |
| Flower colour |
Orange with blue tongue |
| Flower season |
Autumn to spring; intermittently year-round in warm zones |
| Climate zone |
Tropical to subtropical |
Care guide
| Sunlight |
Full sun to bright partial shade |
| Watering |
Moderate; keep evenly moist in growth, reduce in winter |
| Soil / mix |
Rich, well-drained loam with compost |
| Temperature |
15-32 C; protect below 5 C |
| Humidity |
Moderate to high |
| Fertilizer |
Balanced feed monthly in growing season |
| Pruning |
Remove spent flower stalks and dead leaves |
| Repotting |
Every 2-3 years; tolerates being slightly root-bound |
| Propagation |
Division of clumps or fresh seed (slow) |
| Pests & problems |
Scale, mealybugs, aphids |
| Toxicity / safety |
Mildly toxic to pets and humans if ingested |
| Difficulty |
Easy to moderate |
Uses
A dramatic focal plant for tropical landscapes, large containers and entrances. Its long-lasting blooms are popular in premium cut-flower arrangements.
Growing tips
In most Indian plains grow it in full sun with rich soil; established clumps left undisturbed bloom best, so avoid frequent dividing or repotting.