Bird of Paradise
Strelitzia reginae
An iconic tropical plant that produces some of nature's most spectacular flowers resembling exotic orange and blue birds in flight, earning it the nickname 'crane flower.' This striking plant combines architectural paddle-shaped leaves with stunning blooms that make extraordinary cut flowers and serve as the floral emblem of Los Angeles. While it requires patience to reach blooming maturity, the dramatic results make it a coveted centerpiece in any tropical garden.
Sun
Full sun to partial shade
Zones
10–12
USDA hardiness
Height
3-4 feet
Planting Timeline
Showing dates for Bird of Paradise in USDA Zone 10
All Zone 10 tropical →Zone Map
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Bird of Paradise · Zones 10–12
Growing Details
Zone-by-Zone Planting Calendar
| Zone | Indoor Start | Transplant | Direct Sow | Harvest |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Zone 10 | — | — | February – April | June – August |
Complete Growing Guide
Light: Full sun (6 or more hours of direct sunlight a day), Partial Shade (Direct sunlight only part of the day, 2-6 hours). Soil: High Organic Matter, Loam (Silt), Sand. Soil pH: Acid (<6.0), Alkaline (>8.0), Neutral (6.0-8.0). Drainage: Good Drainage, Moist, Occasionally Dry. Height: 3 ft. 0 in. - 4 ft. 0 in.. Spread: 3 ft. 0 in. - 4 ft. 0 in.. Spacing: 3 feet-6 feet. Growth rate: Medium. Maintenance: Low. Propagation: Division.
Harvesting
The fruit is a leathery capsule containing numerous small seeds, each with an orange aril.
Color: Orange. Type: Capsule.
Bloom time: Fall, Summer
History & Origin
Origin: Cape Provinces to KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
Advantages
- +Disease resistance: Deer, Drought, Rabbits
- +Low maintenance
Considerations
- -Toxic: Low severity
Companion Plants
Plant Together
Hibiscus
Similar water and humidity needs, provides wind protection and attracts beneficial pollinators
Croton
Complementary foliage colors, similar light requirements, and helps create tropical microclimate
Elephant Ear
Similar moisture needs, large leaves provide ground coverage and humidity retention
Banana Plant
Creates tropical ecosystem, similar fertilizer needs, and provides mutual wind protection
Caladium
Thrives in partial shade created by Bird of Paradise, adds colorful understory contrast
Plumeria
Similar tropical growing conditions and complementary flowering periods
Ti Plant
Compatible soil pH preferences and similar water requirements
Bougainvillea
Drought tolerance once established, adds vibrant color contrast to orange Bird of Paradise blooms
Keep Apart
Black Walnut
Produces juglone toxin that inhibits growth of most tropical plants
Eucalyptus
Allelopathic properties suppress nearby plant growth and competes aggressively for water
Pine Trees
Acidify soil significantly and create too much shade for optimal Bird of Paradise flowering
Nutrition Facts
Per 100g serving. % Daily Value based on 2,000 calorie diet. Source: USDA FoodData Central (FDC #173944)
Pests & Disease Resistance
Resistance
Generally resistant, good drainage prevents root issues
Common Pests
Scale insects, spider mites, aphids, mealybugs
Diseases
Root rot, leaf spot, bacterial wilt