How to Grow Paradise (Bird of Paradise)
iNaturalist
Paradise (Bird of Paradise)
Strelitzia reginae
flowerBird of Paradise is a stunning tropical flowering plant known for its striking orange and blue blossoms that resemble exotic birds in flight. These dramatic flowers emerge from thick, banana-like foliage and can bloom for several months. The plant is prized as an ornamental for gardens, cut flowers, and indoor displays.
When should you plant Paradise (Bird of Paradise) in your zone?
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Example Paradise (Bird of Paradise) timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Paradise (Bird of Paradise)
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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First Paradise (Bird of Paradise) blooms
Mid-to-late summerBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
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Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 9-11; can be grown in containers elsewhere
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Germination & Seedling
3-6 monthsSeeds are slow to germinate (2-3 months). Seedlings emerge with simple leaves and develop very slowly.
Soak seeds 24 hours before planting. Use warm, consistently moist (not wet) soil. Bottom heat (70-75°F) accelerates germination. Keep seedlings in bright, indirect light.
Juvenile Growth
1-2 yearsPlant develops thick stems and large, blue-green leaves resembling banana plant foliage. Growth is steady but slow.
Provide strong light and stable temperatures (65-75°F). Fertilize monthly during growing season with balanced fertilizer. Water regularly but allow soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Pre-flowering
Several months before first bloomPlant reaches maturity (3-5 feet tall), foliage becomes denser, and flowering is about to begin.
Ensure full sun exposure (critical for blooming). Continue regular feeding with phosphorus-rich fertilizer to encourage flowers. Provide consistent warmth.
Flowering
Multiple flushes over several months (mainly spring/summer)Striking orange and blue flower spikes emerge from the foliage, resembling birds in flight. Flowers last several weeks and bloom sequentially.
Maintain full sun and consistent watering. Avoid moving the plant, as this can interrupt blooming. Support heavy flower stems if needed. Continue fertilizing every 2 weeks with low-nitrogen formula.
Post-bloom & Rest
Fall and winter monthsFlowers fade and are replaced by seed pods. Plant enters a slower growth phase in fall/winter.
Reduce watering and fertilizing. Allow plant to rest in cooler temperatures (50-60°F) if possible to encourage next season's blooms. Remove spent flowers.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Increase humidity by misting foliage; spray with water or insecticidal soap; remove heavily infested leaves
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Remove with alcohol-soaked cotton swab; spray with neem oil or insecticidal soap; isolate infested plants
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Scrape off manually or spray with horticultural oil; treat with systemic insecticide if severe
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Use yellow sticky traps; spray with neem oil or insecticidal soap; improve air circulation
Uses
Decorative garnish
CulinaryBird of Paradise flowers are occasionally used as exotic garnishes for high-end culinary presentations and special occasion dishes, adding visual drama to plating. [source]
Cut flower arrangements
CraftThe striking, long-lasting blooms are prized by florists for exotic bouquets, wedding arrangements, and premium floral designs. Flowers can last 2-3 weeks in water. [source]
Ornamental landscaping
HouseholdBird of Paradise is one of the most dramatic tropical ornamental plants, used to create striking focal points in gardens, patios, and container displays in warm climates. [source]
Indoor plant
HouseholdIn cooler climates, Bird of Paradise thrives in bright conservatories, sunrooms, and large indoor spaces with excellent light. Container-grown plants can be moved outdoors in summer. [source]
Hummingbird and pollinator magnet
WildlifeThe nectar-rich flowers attract hummingbirds, sunbirds, and other pollinators, making it an excellent choice for wildlife gardens and supporting beneficial insects. [source]
Harvest Tips
Cut flowers in the morning when blooms are fully open. Use sharp pruners and cut stems at an angle. Flowers last 2-3 weeks in a vase with fresh water changed every few days. Harvest seed pods once they turn brown and dry for seed collection.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Bird of Paradise flowers resemble tropical birds so closely that they were named 'Strelitzia reginae' after the Strelitzia, a genus of tropical birds, and Queen Charlotte of Mecklenburg-Strelitz.
- 🌱 The plant can take 3-5 years to produce its first flower from seed, making patience essential—but division of mature plants produces blooms much faster (within 1-2 years).
- 🌱 In South Africa, the plant's native habitat, sunbirds are the primary pollinators, and the flower structure has evolved specifically to support their weight and feeding behavior.
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