Strelitzia reginae
Strelitzia reginae
The Bird of Paradise, in my mind, is the most tropical flowering plant that money can buy. It belongs to a genus of 5 perennial species which are native to South Africa. It gets it’s name from the unusual flowers borne on long stems, resembling the actual bird of paradise (Paradisaeidae). The leaves of the Strelitzis are similar to that of the Canna and Banana plants; indeed this tropical beauty actual belongs to the same family.
Strelitzia is a tender perennial and will need to be grow in an entirely frost-free environment. I tend to leave my plants out during the warmer summer months and bring them in again in September, way before the first frosts.
S. reginae ‘Dwarf’
Unparalleled beauty in colour and form. Strelitzia reginae ‘Dwarf’ has fantastic, exotic flowers, making it justly famous. To be grown in a greenhouse or conservatory. One of the most rewarding of plants, it will take quite a bit of abuse and careless handling. Flowers in spring. Grow to a height of between 60-90cm (24-36in).
S. reginae ‘Mandela’s Gold’
The rarely-seen, golden-yellow bird of paradise! Grow to a height of between 120-180cm (4-6ft).
You can buy Strelitzia reginae – ‘Bird of Paradise’ seeds from Thompson and Morgan.
