Marketplace Genus

Bird of Paradise (Strelitzia)

Strelitzia

3 cultivars

Strelitzia, widely known as the Bird of Paradise, is a spectacular genus of tropical ornamental plants celebrated for its striking, architectural presence and iconic crane-like blooms. Depending on the species, these plants range from clumping, moderate-sized perennials like Strelitzia reginae to massive, tree-like specimens such as the White Bird of Paradise (Strelitzia nicolai). Characterized by large, paddle-shaped, banana-like leaves, Strelitzia brings an immediate lush, exotic feel to any setting. Mature plants grown in optimal, sunny conditions produce dramatic flowers with vivid crests of orange, yellow, blue, or white emerging from stiff, horizontal, beak-like bracts. These robust plants thrive outdoors in warm, frost-free climates (typically Zones 9-12) where they excel as landscape focal points or poolside plantings. In cooler regions, they are highly popular as impressive patio plants during summer or as large, statement indoor floor plants. When grown indoors, they require bright, sunny windows to maintain their bold foliage and support potential blooming.