Bird of Paradise (Strelitzia reginae): Iconic Crane Flowers

Bird of paradise (Strelitzia reginae), also called crane flower, is one of the world's most recognizable flowers. The bloom emerges from a hard, beak-like spathe, with brilliant orange sepals and vivid blue petals resembling a colorful bird in flight. The plant forms clumps of large, paddle-shaped, gray-green leaves.

Growth

Clumps reach 4–6 feet tall and wide. Flowers appear intermittently year-round in warm climates, peaking in late winter to spring. Long-lasting cut flowers. It is the floral emblem of Los Angeles.

Culture

Full sun to part shade; rich, well-drained soil. Water regularly; drought-tolerant once established. Feed heavily. Divide crowded clumps in spring. Hardy in zones 10–11; in zone 9, protect or grow in containers.

Taxonomy

• Family: Strelitziaceae
• Genus: Strelitzia
• Species: reginae