Felder Rushing
Family
Strelitziaceae
Botanical Name
STRELITZIA reginae
Plant Common Name
Bird-of-Paradise, Crane Flower
General Description
This is perhaps the ultimate flowering showpiece for frost-free landscapes or a sunny interior room. Bird-of-paradise is a clump-forming, evergreen, subtropical perennial native to South Africa. Its large, bold dark gray-green leaves contrast nicely with its unusual crested flowers. The flower comprises a protruding, pointed, green spathe that gives rise to orange and indigo crests, which resemble exotic bird wings. They arise from tall smooth stems -- crane-like necks -- just above the foliage and appear anytime from late winter to mid-spring, depending on latitude and climate. Cut off old flowers to improve the overall look of the plant clump the rest of the year.
Bird-of-paradise does well in full sun to partial shade, in average to well-drained soil. An organic-rich soil along with frequent liquid feedings in spring and summer lets this perennial plant perform its best. It is a dramatic feature plant that looks great when planted in large masses. It is also suitable for large containers and foundation plantings. Cut flowers to enjoy in vases indoors. Freezes will kill back foliage, but the plant will slowly rejuvenate over 18 to 24 months as long as the winter cold didn't kill the root system.
Characteristics
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AHS Heat Zone
12 - 1
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USDA Hardiness Zone
10 - 14
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Sunset Zone
H1, H2, 22, 23, 24
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Plant Type
Tender Perennial
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Sun Exposure
Full Sun, Partial Sun, Partial Shade
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Height
5'-6' / 1.5m - 1.8m
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Width
3'-4' / 0.9m - 1.2m
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Bloom Time
Early Spring, Spring, Late Winter
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Native To
South Africa
Special Characteristics
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Usage
Container, Cutflower, Feature Plant, Foundation, Houseplant, Mixed Border, Tropical
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Sharp or Has Thorns
No
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Invasive
No
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Attracts
Hummingbirds
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Self-Sowing
No
