Strelitzia reginae

Common Names

Bird of Paradise, Crane Flower, Bird of Paradise Flower, Bird of Paradise Plant, Birds of Paradise

Summary

Strelitzia reginae, commonly Bird of Paradise, is an evergreen tropical perennial native to South Africa. It grows in a clumping, upright habit to about 3 to 6 feet tall and 3 to 4 feet wide, with large paddle-shaped leaves forming a fan. The dramatic orange and blue crane-like flowers appear on tall stalks and resemble a bird, with sunbird pollination in its native habitat.

In cultivation, it prefers bright light from full sun to partial shade and well-drained fertile soil kept evenly moist but not waterlogged; it is drought-tolerant once established. Hardy in USDA zones 9–12, it can be grown as a landscape focal point in warm regions or as a houseplant in cooler climates; propagation is by division or seed, with division typically easier. The plant is toxic to cats and dogs if ingested.

Lifecycle

Perennial (evergreen)

Height

3-6 feet

Spread

3-4 feet

Hardiness Zones

Zones 10-12

Sunlight Requirements

Ideally full sun; tolerates partial sun and partial shade

Soil Type

Loamy, well-drained soil rich in organic matter.

Soil Drainage

Well-drained soil that retains some moisture but never becomes waterlogged.

Soil pH

5.5-7.5, slightly acidic to neutral

Bloom Color

Orange and blue

Bloom Time

Year-round; blooms across Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter

Foliage Color

Blue-green, Gray-green

Fall Foliage Color

No fall foliage color.

Leaf Lifecycle

Evergreen broadleaf

Growth Rate

Slow

Seasons of Interest

Spring and Summer, Fall and Winter

Propagation Methods

Division, Seeds

Attracts Wildlife

Attracts birds; also provides nectar and pollen for bees and other pollinating insects.