Strelitzia reginae

Strelitzia reginae

bird of paradise

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Taxonomy

Common Names

bird of paradisecrane flower

Context

nativeRegion

South Africa (Eastern Cape).

usdaZones

9–12 (can be grown outdoors in frost-free climates).

companionPlants

Agapanthus, Clivia, Aloe, Crocosmia

culturalUses

Grown widely as an ornamental for its dramatic flowers; symbolic of paradise and freedom.

Care

LightBright, indirect sunlight is ideal; can tolerate some direct sun.

WateringWater when the top 2-3 cm of soil is dry; prefers consistent moisture but not soggy conditions.

SoilWell-draining, rich soil such as a peat-based mix with perlite or sand.

FertilizerUse a balanced liquid fertilizer every 2-4 weeks during the growing season (spring-summer).

HumidityPrefers moderate to high humidity but adapts to average household levels.

TemperatureThrives in temperatures between 13–25°C (55–77°F); protect from frost.

HabitClumping, evergreen perennial with upright, banana-like leaves.

Mature SizeTypically 1–2 m (3–6 ft) tall indoors, up to 1.5–2 m tall and wide outdoors.

Growth RateModerate growth; can be slow, especially as a houseplant.

BloomingProduces striking orange and blue flowers mainly in late winter and spring; may take several years to flower from seed.

DormancyNo true dormancy, but growth slows in cooler seasons.

MethodsSeed, Division

DifficultyModerate (seed germination can be slow; division is easier with mature plants).

Best SeasonSpring or early summer.

PruningRemove dead leaves and spent flower stalks as needed.

RepottingRepot every 2–3 years or when rootbound; prefers slightly crowded roots.

Pests & DiseasesSusceptible to spider mites, mealybugs, scale; resistant to most diseases but watch for bacterial leaf spot.

ToxicityMildly toxic to pets and humans if ingested (may cause stomach upset).

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