Strelitzia reginae
Strelitzia reginae is the classic bird of paradise grown for bold orange and blue flowers that resemble a crested bird. Plants form dense clumps and reach medium size, making them workable for patios and bright interiors in much of North America. Bloom is most reliable in winter to spring with strong light. In frost-free zones the plant can live outdoors year-round; elsewhere it is best in containers that move indoors before cold. Give bright light, warmth, and well-drained soil for steady growth. Keep slightly root-bound to encourage flowering.
At‑a‑glance
- Group/Class: Strelitzia (bird of paradise)
- Height × spread: 3 to 4 ft × 3 to 4 ft (0.9 to 1.2 m × 0.9 to 1.2 m)
- Bloom window: winter to spring
- Color & flower form: orange sepals with blue petals; crested bird-like flowers from a beak-like spathe
- Fragrance: 0 none
- USDA hardiness: 10 to 12; container elsewhere
- Breeder / Year / Origin: unknown, unknown, South Africa
- Awards/registration: RHS Award of Garden Merit
- Cut-flower notes: Multiple florets per spathe; can be stored up to 45°F (7°C) for about 4 weeks after proper pretreatment; harvest at tight-bud stage
- Pet safety: avoid (toxic to pets: primarily fruit and seeds)
How it differs
- Medium stature compared with the much taller white bird of paradise.
- Flowers in winter to spring; many types bloom mainly in warm seasons.
- Classic orange and blue color; some cultivars shift to yellow (‘Mandela’s Gold’).
- Widely used as a cut flower with multiple florets per stem.
Strengths
- Long-lasting, architectural blooms
- Performs in containers and bright interiors
- Handles brief dry spells once established
- Clump-forming habit fits modest spaces
Care in one minute
- Site: full sun to bright light; sheltered from strong wind.
- Soil: loamy, well-drained; pH slightly acidic to neutral; avoid waterlogged sites.
- Water: keep evenly moist in spring and summer; let top inch dry between waterings indoors; reduce in winter.
- Feeding: balanced liquid feed monthly in growth; top-dress yearly and repot every two years.
- Grooming: remove spent florets; keep slightly root-bound to promote bloom.
- Overwinter: bring containers indoors before frost; minimum around 50°F.
Watch‑outs
- Sensitive to frost and freezing
- Root rot possible in poorly drained soils
- May fail to flower with low light or over-potting
- Susceptible to mealybugs, scale, and spider mites indoors
Best uses (tags)
containers, cutting, specimen, poolside, houseplant, Mediterranean-style
Provenance note
Native to South Africa and long cultivated worldwide; named for Queen Charlotte of Mecklenburg-Strelitz.
References
- Royal Horticultural Society – How to grow strelitzia
- NC State Extension – Strelitzia reginae
- UC Davis Postharvest – Bird of Paradise
Written by: Your Flowers Guide editorial team
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