How to Grow Bird of Paradise

Bird of Paradise

Strelitzia reginae

shrub

Bird of Paradise is a striking tropical perennial shrub known for its vibrant, exotic flowers that resemble a bird in flight, featuring bright orange and blue petals. Native to South Africa, it produces large, paddle-shaped green leaves and blooms intermittently throughout the year in warm climates. The plant can reach 4-6 feet tall and is popular as both an ornamental landscape plant and a long-lasting cut flower.

Growing Conditions

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Sun: Full sun, 6-8 hours daily; requires bright light for optimal flowering

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Water: Water regularly during growing season (spring/summer), keeping soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Reduce watering in fall/winter. Drought-tolerant once established, but flowers better with consistent moisture.

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Spacing: 36 inches

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Days to maturity: 3-5 years before first flowers appear; 5-7 years for full mature blooming

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Planting depth: Top of root ball level with soil surface; do not bury crown

Soil

Type: Well-draining sandy loam or potting soil

pH: 6.0-6.5

Amendments:

Perlite or coarse sand for drainage Organic compost Mulch to retain moisture

Growing Zones

Find your zone →

Thrives in zones 10-11; can be grown in zone 9b with protection; popular as a container plant in cooler zones

9b 10a 10b 11a 11b

Growth Stages

Seedling/Establishment

First 6-12 months

Young plant develops paddle-shaped leaves from central crown; slow initial growth

Keep soil consistently moist but well-draining. Protect from strong winds. Provide bright, indirect light for young plants. Be patient—these plants grow slowly.

Vegetative Growth

Years 1-3

Plant establishes multiple leaf clusters, reaching 2-4 feet tall; no flowers yet

Water regularly during growing season. Feed monthly with balanced fertilizer. Prune any dead or damaged leaves. Gradually increase sun exposure.

Pre-flowering

Year 3-4

Plant reaches mature size with thick, robust foliage; flower buds begin to form

Switch to lower-nitrogen fertilizer (higher phosphorus) to encourage blooming. Maintain consistent moisture. Reduce watering slightly in winter dormancy period.

Flowering

Intermittent, 1-2 months at a time depending on conditions

Stunning orange and blue flowers emerge on tall stalks above foliage; flowers last 2-3 weeks

Do not move the plant during blooming. Maintain consistent watering. Fertilize every 2-3 weeks with bloom-boosting formula. Remove spent flowers to encourage new blooms.

Post-flowering/Dormancy

Several months

Flowers fade; plant may enter semi-dormant period in fall/winter with reduced growth

Reduce watering frequency. Minimal fertilizing. Light pruning to remove dead flower stalks. Maintain bright light.

Companion Planting

Plan your garden →

Plant with:

Bougainvillea Desert Rose Lantana Agave Ornamental grasses Clivia

Avoid planting near:

Competitive shallow-rooted plants Dense shade-producing trees

Common Pests

Inspect regularly; remove with soft brush or cloth; spray with horticultural oil or neem oil; repeat every 7-10 days as needed
Spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil; isolate infested plants; repeat treatments every 7 days
Increase humidity by misting; spray with water to dislodge; use miticide if severe; ensure adequate air circulation
and
Hand-pick, especially at night; use copper barriers; apply organic slug baits

Uses

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Decorative Floral Arrangements

Culinary

Bird of Paradise flowers are prized florist specimens used in high-end arrangements, bouquets, and tropical-themed designs. They add dramatic, exotic visual impact to any arrangement and remain fresh for weeks. [source]

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Ornamental Landscaping

Household

The plant serves as a stunning focal point in gardens, patios, and containers in tropical and warm climates. Its architectural form and striking blooms make it ideal for Mediterranean, tropical, or contemporary garden designs. [source]

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Traditional Medicine Uses

Medicinal

In South African traditional medicine, Bird of Paradise has been used in various preparations, though scientific research on medicinal applications is limited. [source]

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Pollinator Attraction

Wildlife

The bright flowers attract birds, particularly sunbirds and hummingbirds, making it excellent for wildlife gardens. The nectar-rich blooms support pollinator populations in warm regions. [source]

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Dried Flower Crafts

Craft

The flowers can be air-dried to create long-lasting dried arrangements and craft projects. The distinctive shape holds well even when dried. [source]

This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.

Harvest Tips

Bird of Paradise flowers are excellent as cut flowers and last 2-3 weeks in a vase. Cut flower stalks at the base when the first floret begins to open. Harvest early morning for longest vase life. The plant will continue producing new flowers if blooming is abundant.

Fun Facts

🌱 Bird of Paradise is South Africa's national flower and appears on the country's currency and postage stamps.
🌱 The flower's resemblance to a flying bird is so striking that early European explorers believed it came from the Bird of Paradise bird species and called it 'Strelitzia' meaning 'crane flower'.
🌱 A mature Bird of Paradise plant can produce 5-10 flowers simultaneously during peak blooming season, and individual flowers can last 2-3 weeks on the plant.

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