Plants are inexpensive, available in a range of sizes, and grow rather quickly and so are a great choice for new home landscapes in warm areas. Bird of paradise grows 4' to 6' tall and wide. Birds of paradise have strong claws, which they use to tear into dead bark in search of food. The bird-of-paradise flower grows from rhizomes (underground stems) to a height of 1 to 1.5 metres (about 3 to 5 feet). . Mexican bird of paradise can easily be pruned into a small tree. They Size in, six to forty three inches and their wing span, is seven point nine, to forty seven inches. The plant is grown outdoors in warm climates and as a houseplant for its attractive foliage and unusual flowers. If you’ve ever mistaken a plant for a bird, or vice versa, you may have encountered a Bird of Paradise plant. This article was most recently revised and updated by, https://www.britannica.com/plant/bird-of-paradise-flower. Interesting Facts About the Bird of Paradise. You may also like. White Bird of Paradise plant is known for its gorgeous flowers. This large, upright plant adds a rich, tropical flair to your space as its glossy, banana-shaped leaves fan out. Strelitzia symbolism: Strelitzia is a symbol of thoughtfulness, joy and beauty. Unlike the red bird of paradise, the Mexican variety has bright yellow flowers with long red stamens. The plants are most closely related to banana plants and bear similar tall, wide paddle-shaped foliage. Mexican bird of paradise requires full sun to keep it full and dense. Let’s take a closer look at this natural wonder. The desert bird-of-paradise, or bird-of-paradise bush (Erythrostemon gilliesii), is an unrelated shrub of the pea family (Fabaceae) native to South America and naturalized elsewhere. Check for aphids on occasion. These fun factoids are great to share with friends, family, and coworkers. Remember that this will keep the plant from blooming again for several years! You probably won’t see a more fancy-looking bird than Wilson’s bird of paradise. The giant bird of paradise, Strelitzia nicolai, is one of the largest species and can grow up to 30 feet … Here are the 10 largest ocean creature. There is also a yellow variety (C. gilliesii), of which is similar looking to C. pulcherrima, only a different color. This stunning piece of nature has a unique flower that inspires the imagination. A stunning, highly prized tropical plant with bold clumps of lush, long stalks held in a fountain-like formation supporting huge, blue-green leaves. Red bird of paradise plants are often cut back in the winter since they don't tolerate frost, but they typically come back strong and healthy in the spring. Its scientific name is Strelitzia reginae and it is often used for cut flowers. Strelitzia reginae, commonly known as the crane flower or bird of paradise, is a species of flowering plant indigenous to South Africa. Encyclopaedia Britannica's editors oversee subject areas in which they have extensive knowledge, whether from years of experience gained by working on that content or via study for an advanced degree.... Get exclusive access to content from our 1768 First Edition with your subscription. Nothing captures the beauty of the tropics quite like the bird of paradise plant. The orange and blue flower has two erect pointed petals and five stamens. Signup for our newsletter to get notified about sales and new products. It’s hardy to 25-30 degrees F. The Bird Of Paradise grows in USDA zones 10-12 & also in zone 9 with protection from prolonged freezes. In temperate areas it is a popular houseplant. One of the most recognizable tropical plants is the Birds of Paradise or Strelitzia reginae. Wait, what? It is relatively hardy and adapts to a wide spectrum of light conditions from direct … The 1.8 m (5 ft 11 in)-long leaves are grey-green and arranged like a fan at the top of the stems, similar to Ravenala madagascariensis. Follow these tips to keep your indoor plant healthy. Discover more amazing truths about various flowers and plants on our site. Facts about Birds of Paradise 10: the bill. Interesting facts about snowshoe hares. The flowers of strelitzia are shaped like a spikey-headed bird, hence their common names refer to birds, and are generally bright orange or yellow and purple, although a couple of the species have white flowers. Basic Bird of Paradise facts. Birds of Paradise flowers are produced in a horizontal inflorescence emerging from a stout spathe. Under the right conditions, including full, southern light exposure, proper humidity and temperature, Bird of Paradise may flower indoors, although this is rare. In order to pollinate, a bird must land upon the plant’s spathe. There are 14 genera with 41 species of birds of paradise. Foliage – evergreen Flowering – May to September. This indoor plant to decorate with your home and office with this indoor plant then you can easily get it from here. However, there are numerous Bird of Paradise plants and not all of them are orange. The Bird of Paradise is Similar to the Banana Plant. Bird of Paradise plants are usually pest free. Updates? Bird of Paradise Care The Bird of Paradise is considered the queen of the indoor plant world. When Birds of Paradise plants are young and actively growing, repot them every spring so that they have plenty of room. Bird of Paradise flower is a species with many varieties but only 6 of those are recognized worldwide. Facebook; Prev Article Next Article . In So Cal this plant, with its bright, bold & recognizable flowers, is ubiquitous. All rights reserved. The plant is native to South Africa and requires a steady climate between 50-72 degrees Fahrenheit (10-20 degrees Celsius) to thrive. They are also known as lobster-claw―because they look like them, false bird-of-paradise―because they resemble the flowers known as the bird of paradise, and wild plantain. Table of Contents Essential Oils and How to Use Them How to Use Essential Oils 7 Healing Essential Oils For…. In fact, they are somewhat of an iconic Californian species, along with Washingtonia palms. There is a very beautiful … They have been recorded in swamps, moss forests, tropical rainforests, savanna woodlands, coastal mangroves, and more. The Birds of Paradise plant usually reaches a height of 4 feet. A Few Bird of Paradise Flower Facts. The leaves are bluish green in colour and may have a red midrib. One of the most spectacular and impactful flowering plants for tropical to semi-tropical zones is Strelitzia bird of paradise. Plant facts for Caesalpinia gilliesii (Yellow Bird-of-Paradise) including photos, regional plant care reminders and gardening information in our plant encyclopedia. © Copyright 2020 Florida Independent. Bird of Paradise plants can grow as tall as 5 feet or taller and their leaf blades measure 6 by 18 … This beautiful flower is actually quite similar to the banana plant. All species generally bloom in summer or year round in tropical climates. Though Bird of Paradise is a tropical plant, it can withstand temperatures as low as 24 degrees Fahrenheit, though flowers and buds will be damaged. The flowers grow at the point where the leaf fan protrudes from the stem. Locals call it the Crane Flower due to its resemblance to this ancient bird. This plant originates from South America, but it goes by a different name. This post, is about White Bird of Paradise indoor plant information and it’s facts and care guide. The bird of paradise plant (Strelitzia reginae) is a tropical favorite known for its flamboyant birdlike blooms. The South African Bird of paradise plant (Strelitzia reginae) was named … They are drought-tolerant despite their lush appearance, and have few pest and disease problems. Bird of paradise tree is just the ticket when you want tough, durable beauty and unique form in a large plant. The plant can be … Article Sources. We uncover some incredible facts, including the mental health benefits they offer mankind and the physical health benefits of milk thistle. Learn All About its Watering, Light, Humidity, and Additional Care Requirements. As the Birds of Paradise mature (and have bloomed for a year or two), they can be carefully divided. Mexican bird of paradise produces bright yellow flower clusters throughout the warm season. The Bird Of Paradise isn’t too fussy as to soil which is evidenced by the wide variety of places it grows in. When it is time to repot, about every 3 years in spring, only increase the pot size if the roots are extremely cramped. You read that right! When this happens, the pressure applied by the bird’s weight opens the bract. Strelitzia reginae is a species of evergreen tropical herbaceous plant, native to South Africa. The Bird of Paradise Flower has a Meaning as Glorious as Its Name, 2. One main flower bract, shaped like a boat, is green with red borders. In fact, they’re both herbaceous perennials. A South African native, the plant is hardy in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 10 through 12. One type of bird of paradise plant is a low-growing jungle plant with unique exotic flowers, a relative of the banana plant, while the other type is a member of the pea family, a thorny shrub or tree that loves desert environments. Do not plant bird of paradise too deeply in the pot. Most of these flowers grown in the United States originate from Los Angeles, California. You can buy a White Bird of Paradise here or visit your local nursery. Strelitzia reginae, commonly known as the crane flower or bird of paradise, is a species of flowering plant indigenous to South Africa. This low maintenance plant can live both indoors or outdoors, but outside is where you will have the most. Throughout the rest of the United States, it enjoys widespread popularity as a dependable houseplant. Get ready to take notes! The 6 - 8' leaves are grey-green and arranged in fans atop the trunks. Paradise significance birds include joy and paradise, anticipation and excitement. There are two very different plant genera that comprise species with the common name "bird of paradise." Blooms of the bird of paradise are actually made up of many different parts. Place away from housing structures to accommodate mature size. The red bird of paradise has showy red blooms and fern-like foliage. The bird of paradise flower is unique in that it looks like a bird in flight. White bird-of-paradise (Strelitzia alba) and giant bird-of-paradise (S. nicolai) both feature white- to cream-coloured flowers and are sometimes cultivated. The female bird of paradise has smaller and shorter tail. Feed the plant in early spring every 2 weeks and once per month in summer with a soluble plant food. Our editors will review what you’ve submitted and determine whether to revise the article. In the wild, birds of paradise flowers are pollinated by sunbirds, regularly feed on its sweet nectar. A healthy, mature plant can produce up to 36 flower spikes each year. From myths and lore to modern day plays and romantic comedies, these eye-catching plants have served as a vehicle to express our emotions. These plants will have a lot more details displayed including an image. This large, upright plant adds a rich, tropical flair to your space as its glossy, banana-shaped leaves fan out. If you enter just a plant name, you will see results from the old RHS Plant Finder and Selector databases; If you select any attributes with or without a plant name, you will see a much narrower selection of results taken only from the old RHS Plant Selector database. Strelitzia Nicolai is the white-colored Bird of Paradise while the Strelitzia reginae is the orange-colored ones and known as Crane Lily. You can. Growing Bird of Paradise Indoors Bird of paradise gives any room a tropical punch. We uncover some incredible facts, including the, 1. It has stiff, erect, leathery, concave, and oblong leaves borne on a long petiole (leafstalk). These plants are native to the tropical regions of America and the Pacific Ocean islands towards the west of Indonesia. Its mature height can reach 8 to 10 feet with similar spread. A Few Bird of Paradise Flower Facts . Good companion plants for bird of paradise include low-growing, drought-tolerant plants, such as mondo grass, Carissa, Asiatic jasmine, bromeliads and juniper. 1 year ago. The split leaves that give the Bird of Paradise plant it’s bird-like morphology is scientifically believed to be purposeful leaf tearing or lobing of leaves to reduce drag in the wind. • In Hawaii, the bird of paradise grows wild and is a significant part of the culture. It is included in the family Paradisaeidae. Bird of Paradise Flower Facts. By Mary M. Alward . Birds of Paradise are also propagated from seed. Their tropical foliage is reminiscent of banana leaves in a cool blue-green color, acting as a great foil for the amazingly intricate flowers. Omissions? The giant bird of paradise, Strelitzia nicolai, is one of the largest species and can grow up to 30 feet in height. Bird of Paradise blooms sit atop of a long stalk ranging in height from two to five feet. Life span is five to eight years. Strelitzia nicolai (Giant White Bird of Paradise) - The Nicolai is the large form of the common 'Bird of Paradise'. The fruits are capsules with numerous seeds. This plant originates from South America, but it goes by a different name. It is named for its resemblance to the showy forest birds known as birds-of-paradise. The 10 Largest Ocean Animals. The term ‘heliconia’ is derived from a Greek word There are five varieties of this perennial plant, the most common of which is the Strelitzia reginae and Strelitzia nicolai, or the white bird of paradise. The Bird of Paradise is known to represent beauty, freedom, and magnificence. The plant is also known as the “Bird of Paradise”, because it looks like a beautiful bird with a crown of feathers. White Bird of Paradise: The White Bird of Paradise (Strelitzia alba), is a larger tree form of the Orange Bird of Paradise. A Healthy Bird of Paradise Can Produce Many Flowers, 3. These birds live mainly in the canopy of the forest, and search for fruit, insects, berries, and other prey among the treetops. Nicolai wil grow to about 6m tall, and is very hardy and reasonably drought tolerant. Given its own family Strelitziaceae by taxonomists, it is still closely related to bananas (Musaceae). Plus, with an average height of 4 to 6 feet and a width that is nearly the same, you may be hardpressed to find room for it inside your house! The bird of paradise flower is an evergreen perennial; this means that the plant usually keeps its green foliage throughout the year, but it also means that the plant dies when it frosts and temperatures drop, and then it will reemerge through spring. The only natural predators of birds of a paradise are a few reptiles, such as the Green tree python of Papua, New Guinea. You read that right! The Bird of Paradise is located in South East Asia, in the jungles of Indonesia, Papua New Guinea and parts of eastern Australia. Prized for their long-lasting beauty as cut flowers, bird of paradise plants grow best in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 9 through 11 and are often cultivated as houseplants. They are widely cultivated around the world as an indoor plant, and are used frequently in warmer climates as garden plant. Bird of paradise is one of the flashiest flowers you will ever see! Bird of Paradise is a gorgeous plant known for its orange flowers. The bird-of-paradise flower grows from rhizomes (underground stems) to a height of 1 to 1.5 metres (about 3 to 5 feet). Since the two resembled each other, the plants were named for the birds. Related to the bird of paradise flower (Strelitzia regina ), this close cousin is a much larger plant forming huge clumps of stems to 30 feet in comparison to S. regina's 3 to 4 feet height. There are also triangular seed capsules. As plant matures, extremely large bird-like flowers emerge, with white heads and blue tongues. Not only does this plant have a flower that poses a striking resemblance to a long-necked bird, but it also has a direct relationship with its feathered friends. Interested in adding a Bird of Paradise to your landscaping? 1). From myths and lore to modern day plays and romantic comedies, these eye-catching plants have served as a vehicle to express our emotions. For centuries, flowers have wielded deep, symbolic meaning. They have a light blue tongue that sits in a purplish bract. Bird of paradise is a superb plant, boasting simply magnificent flowers and nicely dense leafage. Be on the lookout for your Britannica newsletter to get trusted stories delivered right to your inbox. Check your inbox now to confirm your subscription. This Plant Has a Close Relationship with Birds, 4. This slow-growing, clumping perennial resembles the related Heliconia in vegetative appearance. Long Lived Birds – Very little is known about the wild lives of birds of paradise. Height – 3 to 10 feet (1 to 3 m) Exposure – full sun, part sun Soil – ordinary. The Birds of Paradise flower inflorescence is borne atop long scapes, or pedicels, that grow to 5 feet or more in height. Bird of Paradise Genera . Strelitzia are also known as ‘bird of paradise plants’ or ‘crane flowers’. The bird of paradise belongs to the Strelitziaceae plant family and its formal plant name is Strelitzia. Instead, these birds have become nature's most flamboyant, capable of putting on stunning visual displays. Flowers. Bird of Paradise Genera The growing conditions for bird of paradise, particularly the temperature range, are very specific. Let’s find out more interesting facts about bird of paradise below: In most cases, the female birds of paradise have larger bills if you compare it with males. It has stiff, erect, leathery, concave, and oblong leaves borne on a long petiole (leafstalk). Two other members of the genus Strelitzia are commonly known as bird-of-paradise flowers. Birds of paradise are mostly found in dense forests. Name – Strelitzia reginae Family – Strelitziaceae Type – perennial. The flowers tend to be very large. An evergreen perennial, it is widely cultivated for its dramatic flowers.In temperate areas it is a popular houseplant. Navigate parenthood with the help of the Raising Curious Learners podcast. Therefore, these birds do not need camouflage. Get facts about birds here. Let us know if you have suggestions to improve this article (requires login). It does prefer a loamy, somewhat rich mix however & needs good drainage. But its appearance isn’t the only thing that “wows” nature enthusiasts. This post, is about White Bird of Paradise indoor plant information and it's facts and care guide. You read that right! When not in bloom, the two look a lot alike. The bird of paradise plant (Strelitzia reginae) is a tropical favorite known for its flamboyant birdlike blooms. They are native to very dense forests, and research is very difficult to conduct in their natural habitat. Locals call it the Crane Flower due to its resemblance to this, Interested in adding a Bird of Paradise to your landscaping? Each flower can live for up to 2 weeks after its clipped, giving you plenty of opportunities to showcase its beauty in arrangements all around the house. This leads to a pollen release that coats the bird’s feet, which is then transported to the next flower the bird lands on. The dwarf poinciana (Caesalpinia pulcherrima), a showy tree grown throughout the American tropics and subtropics, is sometimes known as the Mexican bird-of-paradise or red bird-of-paradise. The bird of paradise plant is named so for its resemblance to the equatorial wild bird. The bird of paradise is closely related to the banana plant, which is evident in its similar-looking large fan-like leaves. Not only is it known for its bright colors and elaborate tail feathers, but its complex mating behavior will make you smile and shake your head at the same time. However, northern gardeners don’t despair. Throughout the rest of the United States, it enjoys widespread popularity as … Plant owners who nurture their bird of paradise can experience as many as 36 different blooms per year. The Bird of Paradise is considered the queen of the indoor plant world. Like a swan or crane, its lithe display captures an air of natural elegance. 24/7 Hotline call +65 8585 5454; Blog; Contact; Newsletter . • The bird of paradise represents faithfulness, love, and thoughtfulness — making it the perfect romantic gift. Hardiness. Bird-of-paradise flower, (Strelitzia reginae), also called crane flower, ornamental plant of the family Strelitziaceae native to South Africa. A frost-tender evergreen. The bird of paradise’s majesty will help create the home oasis you’ve always dreamed of. Bird-of-Paradise. . The Bird of Paradise is Similar to the Banana Plant, Top 8 Healing Essential Oils to Use on Sick Days, Biggest Sea Animals: Oh My! Bird of Paradise is grown commercially in California and Hawaii. Unlike many tropical plants, it has a good tolerance for drought, making it a favorite for desert landscapes. The Bird of Paradise is faithfulness, devotion, and thoughtfulness, making it the perfect loving gift. The flowers of strelitzia are shaped like a spikey-headed bird, hence their common names refer to birds, and are generally bright orange or yellow and purple, although a couple of the species have white flowers. The length of the female and male tail is different. A Complete Plant Care Guide for your Bird of Paradise Plants. 25 Wilson's Bird of Paradise Facts: What You Need To Know. Bird of paradise plumes are used as currency by certain New Guinea tribes. This Red Bird of Paradise is a drought and heat tolerant shrub that relishes full sun with its lively red- orange flowers cultivating out of long, thin stalks. Add any text here or remove it. Reactions: Email This BlogThis! If kept potted, they can bloom. From whales to manta rays, the ocean attracts biggest sea animals. Its history and origins also carry their share of surprises. This indoor plant to decorate with your home and office with this indoor plant then you can easily get it … The common name “Crane Flower” refers to the shape of the flower. The bird-of-paradise plant was discovered by Europeans after they’d already discovered the avian bird of paradise. It also represents freedom and immortality. Bird of Paradise Plant Meaning. This is a tall-growing species with woody stems carrying glossy, deep … Plus, with an average height of 4 to 6 feet and a width that is nearly the same, you may be hardpressed to find room for it inside your house! This beautiful flower is actually quite. Posted by Canada Floral Delivery at 11:08 PM. Brightly coloured ‘birds’, the strelitzia. When not in bloom, the two look a lot alike. Birds of paradise are undeniably beautiful, albeit strange, birds. . They are incredibly flashy, outlandish, and unique creatures. They weigh 1.8 ounces to 15.2 ounces. The red bird of paradise (Caesalpinia pulcherrima) a flowering broadleaf evergreen shrub native to tropical and subtropical climates. Facts about Birds of Paradise talk about the birds included in the order Passeriformes. In fact, they’re both herbaceous perennials. The leaves are bluish green in colour and may have a red midrib. Strelitzia nicolai, commonly known as the giant white bird of paradise or wild banana, is a species of banana-like plants with erect woody stems reaching a height of 6 m (20 ft), and the clumps formed can spread as far as 3.5 m (11 ft).. … A South African native, the plant is hardy in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 10 through 12. Please select which sections you would like to print: Corrections? Strelitzia nicolai, commonly known as the giant white bird of paradise or wild banana, is a species of banana -like plants with erect woody stems reaching a height of 6 m (20 ft), and the clumps formed can spread as far as 3.5 m (11 ft). Orange Bird of Paradise: The orange flowering Strelitzia reginae is the plant most often referred to as Bird of Paradise. Sign up for Newsletter. The flowers are big and can reach a size of 10 to 12 inches. The main flower color is white, cream and gray. The bird of paradise plant isn’t the only marvel produced by Mother Nature. Bird of paradise plants (_Strelitzia spp._) make a striking statement in the home or garden. The Spruce uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. In colder regions, many gardeners tuck it into a pot they can shift outdoors during the summer. Strelitzia are also known as ‘bird of paradise plants’ or ‘crane flowers’. These plants are also known as crane flowers in South Africa and are featured on the back of their 50 cent piece. It is said that some root exposure promotes flowers. Great as a two-storey screening plant in suburban gardens. An evergreen perennial, it is widely cultivated for its dramatic flowers. Skip to content. Also, a pot bound plant will produce more blooms. Fact Sheet FPS-563 October, 1999 Strelitzia reginae1 Edward F. Gilman2 Introduction Bird-of-Paradise is grown as much for its handsome blue-green tropical foliage as for the distinctive flowers which appear periodically throughout the year (Fig. Desert Bird of Paradise with red flowers. Here is a basic care guide for White Bird of Paradide ( Strelitzia nicolai) I do not own a Strelitzia reginae, but the same care applies. The scientific name for the bird of paradise plant is Strelitzia reginae, and it is also commonly called the crane flower. It’s no surprise considering the elegant way it emulates a bird’s neck and head. Bird of paradise plumes are used as currency by certain New Guinea tribes. But is the biggest sea creature really a beast? Strelitzia nicolai is the giant bird of paradise, whereas the reginea species is the standard sized plant with sword-like leaves and smaller flowers. The Giant Bird of Paradise is a tropical-looking plant from Southern Africa. or visit your local nursery. Certain significance include: The Paradise Bird … Most of these flowers grown in the United States originate from Los Angeles, California. Bird of paradise plants can make an amazing statement piece in a garden setting. The bright orange sepals and lilac petals that emerge from the light green stems resemble the name of the bird, a long-fed colorful bird. Distribution of the Bird of Paradise All the Desert Bird of Paradise bushes are Perennial (only plant them once). The bird of paradise plant can grow up to 5 feet tall. This low maintenance plant can live both indoors or outdoors, but outside is where you will have the most opportunities for flowers. Bird of paradise (Strelitzia reginae) craves heat, growing best in temperatures over 50 F. Winter hardy in Zones 10 to 12, bird of paradise adapts readily to containers. Out of those six varieties, two are most common and popular, the Strelitzia Nicolai and Strelitzia reginae. You find this bird living in eastern Australia, Maluku islands and New Guinea. The southern hemisphere constellation Apus represents a bird-of-paradise. One type of bird of paradise plant is a low-growing jungle plant with unique exotic flowers, a relative of the banana plant, while the other type is a member of the pea family, a thorny shrub or tree that loves desert environments. By signing up for this email, you are agreeing to news, offers, and information from Encyclopaedia Britannica. Facts about Birds of Paradise 9: the tail. Bird of paradise, or strelitzia reginae, produces thick, leathery leaves and colorful flowers that resemble the shape of a bird's head. There is a variety known as ‘Mandelas’s Gold’ that has yellow petals and a blue tongue.