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Bird of Paradise
IntermediateStrelitzia reginae
Native to South Africa, named for its orange and blue-purple flowers resembling a bird of paradise. Beautiful leaves even when not in bloom. Relatively drought-tolerant.
About
Strelitzia reginae, the bird-of-paradise or crane flower, is a perennial native to the Eastern Cape of South Africa. Its vivid orange and blue-purple flowers — resembling the head and plumage of a tropical bird in flight — are among the most recognisable flowers in the world. It serves as the official flower of both South Africa and the city of Los Angeles. The plant produces paddle-shaped, leathery, bluish-green leaves on long petioles, typically reaching 1–1.5 m in height. A sun-loving plant, it thrives in the brightest available position and tolerates direct sunlight. Water thoroughly in the growing season (spring to autumn), reducing in winter; it is moderately drought-tolerant. Root-bound conditions actually encourage flowering — avoid over-potting. One of the few houseplants that can genuinely be enjoyed for both its foliage and its extraordinary flowers.
Lifespan of the Bird of Paradise
The Bird of Paradise lives 20+ years.
Size of the Bird of Paradise
The Bird of Paradise grows to 60-150cm.
Temperature & humidity for the Bird of Paradise
The ideal temperature for the Bird of Paradise is 10〜30℃.
Cold-tolerant to about 10°C, making it more adaptable than many tropical plants.
Basic Info
Origin
Eastern Cape, South Africa
Lifespan
20+ years
Size
60-150cm
Temperature
10〜30℃
Humidity
40〜70%
Watering & Fertilizer
Liquid fertilizer 1-2x monthly in spring-fall
Growing Tips
Placement
Best in sunny location. Can be grown outdoors
Watering
Water thoroughly when soil dries. Relatively drought-tolerant
Temperature & Overwintering
Grows at 10-30°C and tolerates down to 10°C, hardier than most tropical plants. Reduce watering in winter.
Fertilizer
Feed liquid fertilizer once or twice a month from spring to autumn. For flowering, pair steady feeding with plenty of sun.
Flowering
Vivid flowers in spring-summer when plant matures
Notes
Root-bound conditions encourage flowering
Bird of Paradise FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Bird of Paradise?
Intermediate. A variety suitable for intermediate growers. Requires some cultivation experience and knowledge of environment management. Pay careful attention to temperature and humidity control.
QWhat is the ideal temperature for Bird of Paradise?
The ideal temperature for Bird of Paradise is 10〜30℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
QWhat is the lifespan of Bird of Paradise?
The average lifespan of Bird of Paradise is 20+ years. With proper cultivation environment and nutrient management, you can keep it healthy for a long time.
QHow large does Bird of Paradise get?
The mature size of Bird of Paradise is 60-150cm. This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.
QHow should I water and fertilize Bird of Paradise?
Bird of Paradise: watering & fertilizer — Liquid fertilizer 1-2x monthly in spring-fall. Aim for appropriate frequency and amount.
QWhat is the typical price for Bird of Paradise?
The price of Bird of Paradise varies significantly by variety, characteristics, size, and lineage. Please check GrowerDirect's price guide for the latest market information.
Last updated: June 24, 2026
Growing Specifications
- USDA Zone
- 10–12
- Hardiness (RHS)
- H1b
Sources: Missouri Botanical Garden Plant Finder - Strelitzia reginae / RHS - Strelitzia reginae
References & Sources
Edited & verified by: GrowerDirect Editorial Team
The classifications, regulations, and growing data on this page are created and verified based on the primary information database below.
Taxonomy & Authority
Regulations & Conservation Status
Foliage plant. Confirmed by document review to be non-applicable to CITES Appendix (Flora), designated invasive species, or designated animals (the genus does not appear in the CITES flora section; Dracaena spp. listings in CITES refer to a reptile genus of the same name; the plant Dracaena is not applicable).
Sources: CITES Appendices I/II/III (flora section, grepped via dbca mirror) / CITES Appendices (official) / Ministry of the Environment List of Specified Invasive Alien Species
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
Related Species
Find listings for this species
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