Strelitzia reginae 'Mandela’s Gold'
Strelitzia reginae ‘Mandela’s Gold’ is the yellow-flowered selection of the classic bird of paradise, developed and released by Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden. It grows like the species but swaps orange sepals for clear yellow, pairing with blue to purple petals. The clumping habit and moderate size suit frost-free gardens and large containers across North America. Expect bloom in winter to spring with abundant light and warmth. Cultural needs match S. reginae.
At‑a‑glance
- Group/Class: Strelitzia (bird of paradise cultivar)
- Height × spread: 4 to 5 ft × 3 to 4 ft (1.2 to 1.5 m × 0.9 to 1.2 m)
- Bloom window: winter to spring
- Color & flower form: yellow sepals with blue to purple petals; classic bird-like form
- Fragrance: 0 none
- USDA hardiness: 10 to 12; container elsewhere
- Breeder / Year / Origin: Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden, 1996, South Africa
- Cut-flower notes: Same handling as species; multiple florets emerge from each spathe
- Pet safety: avoid (cultivar of toxic S. reginae)
How it differs
- Flower sepals are yellow rather than orange.
- Similar size and clump habit to reginae.
- Color reads softer in bouquets and plantings while keeping the iconic form.
Strengths
- Distinct color within a familiar, reliable species
- Performs in containers and warm landscapes
- Suited to winter to spring bloom windows under bright light
Care in one minute
- Site: full sun to bright light; shelter from strong wind.
- Soil: well-drained, organic-rich loam; pH slightly acidic to neutral.
- Water: even moisture in growing season; reduce in winter indoors.
- Feeding: balanced liquid feed monthly in growth; keep slightly root-bound.
- Grooming: remove spent florets; divide clumps only when crowded.
- Overwinter: move containers indoors before frost; target 50°F minimum.
Watch‑outs
- Limited availability; growth is slow from division
- Cold sensitive; protect from frost and freezing
Best uses (tags)
containers, cutting, specimen, poolside, entryways
Provenance note
Selected and distributed by Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden; formerly sold as ‘Kirstenbosch Gold’ and renamed to honor Nelson Mandela in 1996.
References
- Wisconsin Horticulture – Strelitzia reginae (notes on ‘Mandela’s Gold’)
- RHS – Strelitzia reginae ‘Kirstenbosch Gold’
- SANBI – PlantZAfrica: ‘Mandela’s Gold’ (cultivar page)
Written by: Your Flowers Guide editorial team
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