Famous for its crane-like orange and blue flowers perched above blue-green paddle leaves. A bold sun-lover that flowers best when potbound in a bright spot.
At a glance
- Plant type: Indoor plant
- Mature size: 1.5 m H × 1.2 m W
- Aspect: full sun
- Water: regular, moderate watering
- Frost: tender
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Bird of Paradise
Botanically, Strelitzia reginae is a moderate-growing indoor plant in the Strelitziaceae family. It reaches around 1.5 m tall and 1.2 m wide at maturity, with evergreen foliage.
Where to grow Bird of Paradise
Bird of Paradise suits subtropical climates and grows best in full sun. It is frost tender, so protect it from hard frosts or grow it in a sheltered spot or pot.
Soil & planting
Most soils suit Bird of Paradise provided drainage is reasonable. Dig in plenty of compost before planting, water in well, and mulch to keep roots cool.
Watering & feeding
Bird of Paradise does best with regular, moderate watering. A light spring feed is usually enough to maintain steady growth. New plantings need closer moisture checks in hot or windy weather, with watering tapered once strong new growth appears.
Pruning & care
Tip-prune Bird of Paradise in spring to maintain a dense, shapely habit. Expect a low maintenance care workload once it is established.
Using Bird of Paradise in the garden
Bird of Paradise earns its place for pots and courtyard containers, a feature or specimen planting, cut flowers for the vase and drawing nectar-feeding birds into the garden. It is equally at home in the ground or a large pot on a balcony or courtyard.
Companion planting & design
For easier irrigation and care, group Bird of Paradise with species that also favour regular, moderate watering and subtropical climate. Leave enough room for the mature spread so neighbouring plants are not crowded out.
Good to know
Note that it is toxic to cats and dogs, so site it away from pets that chew.
Buying Bird of Paradise
Plant Sale lists Bird of Paradise as potted plants. Catalogue forms are planning guidance until the Plant Sale team confirms live availability.
