Strelitzia reginae aka Bird Of Paradise

Strelitzia reginae is called bird of paradise or crane flower. This South African plant stays green and lives for years. Its native range runs from the Cape Provinces to KwaZulu-Natal. It is part of the plant family Strelitziaceae. Plants grow in upright clumps from rhizomes, or underground stems. Garden heights range from about 3–5 feet [0.9–1.5 metres]. Chicago Botanic Garden reports a height of 6 feet [1.8 metres]. Clumps spread about 1.6–4 feet [0.5–1.2 metres].

Large grey-green leaves grow on long stalks from the base. Their broad, flat parts look much like banana leaves. They have smooth edges and no hairs. Leaves can reach 3.5–4 feet [1.1–1.2 metres] long. The flowers look like a bird's head. Each opens from a pointed sheath called a spathe. Each flower has three orange sepals and three blue petals. Two petals join to hold nectar. They open when birds visit, placing pollen on their feet. Tough fruit capsules hold many small seeds. Each seed has an orange aril, a covering.

Bloom times vary with the site and how plants grow. Chicago records blooms from September through February. NC State reports blooms at times throughout the year. Plants need strong light and enough feed to flower. Young plants may take several years to bloom. Pots that are a little tight can help plants flower. Full sun or partial shade suits outdoor plants. Under glass, give full light with shade from hot sun. Use rich soil that drains well or a loam-based potting mix. The plant grows in acid, neutral, and alkaline soils.

Water well during growth, then water less in winter. Feed each month during growth with a balanced liquid fertiliser. RHS rates it H1B. This allows outdoor use in Britain in summer. Chicago lists USDA zones 9–11; NC State lists 10–12. Grow it in pots in sunrooms, greenhouses, or on patios. Bright indoor spaces also suit plants in pots. In cold climates, move pots indoors for winter. In warm climates, gardens use it in borders and street plantings. Cut flower stems also suit arrangements. It needs no routine pruning.

Most plants have few pest or disease problems. Scale insects, mealybugs, and spider mites can still attack. Too much water or poor drainage can cause root rot. Leaf spot can leave yellow or brown marks. Indigenous South Africans have used the plant as medicine. This use does not show that it is safe to eat. Fruit and seeds can cause nausea, vomiting, and sleepiness. NC State lists a low risk of severe poisoning for people. ASPCA confirms that it is toxic to cats, dogs, and horses.