A bird of paradise adds a tropical flare to any landscape! Also known as the crane flower, these plants are easily recognizable by their unique blooms resembling a tropical bird. The bird of paradise means joy and paradise but can also symbolize freedom, thoughtfulness and excitement. Here in Northeast Florida, we most often see the orange bird of paradise (Strelitzia reginae) and the white bird of paradise (Strelitzia nicolai).
While both orange and white birds of paradise grow well in our area, it is important to consider which plant best suits the desired location when adding these plants to a landscape. Orange bird of paradise plants grow in clusters reaching up to 3-to-5-feet tall and feature banana-shaped leaves. This more compact size makes them useful throughout garden beds or in containers. Their blooms have petals in orange and blue held on stiff stalks. Reaching much larger sizes up to 30 feet tall, a white bird of paradise features the birdlike flower of white petals with an accent of blue. Their leaves are much larger and more paddle-shaped than the orange variety. The size of a white bird of paradise makes this plant an ideal focal point in a landscape. Both orange and white birds of paradise have evergreen leaves that do not drop off the plant.
Bird of paradise plants prefer full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. Water them regularly and fertilize at the start of each growing season. Remove old blooms or damaged leaves by cutting the base of the stalk with sharp pruners to avoid leaving jagged edges. As with other tropicals, it is important to protect bird of paradise plants from cold temperatures in the winter months.
With its evergreen leaves, a bird of paradise also makes a beautiful indoor plant. Be sure the pot is large enough for the plant and has holes for drainage. Place the plant in an area with natural light from windows and rotate the plant to encourage even growth. Although an indoor bird of paradise may not grow quite as tall as one planted outdoors (particularly the white variety), these plants will bloom if given enough sunlight during the day.
Happy planting!
Please email Kathy at kathys.creative.gardens@gmail.com for any questions or gardening tips you would like to see in the future. For more information and ideas, visit the nursery in Ponte Vedra Beach: Kathy’s Creative Gardens & Nursery, 196 N. Roscoe Blvd. 904-655-7373
