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 an 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. Plant into well-prepared ground, firm the soil around the roots and water deeply to settle it in.
Watering & feeding
Bird of Paradise is regular, moderate watering. A feed in spring with a balanced fertiliser keeps growth strong. In its first year, water deeply once or twice a week to settle the roots in, then taper off as it establishes.
Pruning & care
Tip-prune Bird of Paradise in spring to maintain a dense, shapely habit. Overall it is low maintenance.
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 a cohesive, low-care bed, pair Bird of Paradise with other plants that enjoy the same regular, moderate watering and subtropical climate. Repeat it through a border to tie the planting together and give a sense of rhythm.
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. Stock isn't live yet — register your interest using the panel above and we'll email you the moment it is available.