Strelitzia reginae, commonly known as the Bird of Paradise flower or Crane flower, is a striking evergreen perennial native to South Africa. It's renowned for its vibrant, exotic flowers and large, paddle-shaped leaves.
 
Flowers: Strelitzia reginae's most distinctive feature is its brilliant orange and blue flowers that emerge from a beak-like bract, resembling a bird in flight. These long-lasting blooms add a tropical touch to any setting.
Foliage: The plant has large, paddle-shaped leaves that contribute to its exotic and architectural appearance. 
 
Light: Strelitzia reginae thrives in bright, direct sunlight. However, it can tolerate some shade, particularly from the intense midday sun.
Temperature: This plant prefers warm temperatures, ideally between 18-28°C. It can tolerate lower temperatures during winter (around 15°C), which can actually encourage flowering.
Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist during the growing season (spring and summer), but avoid overwatering. During autumn and winter, reduce watering and allow the soil to dry out between waterings.
Humidity: Strelitzia reginae prefers a humid environment. Increase humidity by misting the leaves regularly or placing the pot on a tray of damp gravel.
Feeding: Feed the plant with a balanced liquid fertiliser every two weeks during the growing season.
Soil: Plant in a peat-free, loam-based compost with good drainage.
Potting: Strelitzia reginae prefers being slightly pot-bound. Repot only when roots appear at the top of the compost, in spring, into a slightly larger pot. 
 
Ornamental: Strelitzia reginae is widely cultivated as an ornamental plant in gardens, conservatories, and as a houseplant, thanks to its beautiful flowers and foliage.
Cut Flower: It's also popular in the cut-flower trade due to the beauty and longevity of its blooms.
Landscaping: It's used in warm temperate climates as an architectural plant and focal point.
Traditional Medicine: Strelitzia reginae has been used in traditional medicine for various ailments, including treating inflamed glands, venereal diseases, and urinary tract infections. 
 
Freedom and Paradise: The Bird of Paradise flower symbolizes freedom and paradise. Its resemblance to a bird in flight represents the idea of soaring to new heights and exploring new opportunities.
Royalty and Excellence: Its regal appearance and association with the Royal Botanic Gardens at Kew contribute to its symbolism of royalty, nobility, dignity, and excellence.
Joy and Success: The vibrant colours and unique form are also associated with joy, success, and positive energy. 
 
With proper care, a Bird of Paradise plant can live for decades. Some species, like Strelitzia nicolai (Giant Bird of Paradise), have been reported to live for 50 to 150 years. 
 
 
This plant is supplied in a 12cm pot and the plant is approximately 30-40cm tall, including the pot.