Bird of Paradise

Strelitzia reginae

Symbolizes joyfulness and magnificence and can be used to indicate exciting and wonderful anticipation. This exotic, tropical flower is well known for its characteristic bird-like appearance.


Some maintain that this flower is named after the actual Birds of Paradise which are one of the most beautiful birds in the world. However, since this flower is also known as the strelitzia, some say that the name is derived from a past Queen of England… Queen Charlotte Sophia. She had a home in Strelitzia, Germany hence it genus name Strelitzia. The last name regiane… is Latin for “Queen.

Bird of Paradise usually has strong, thick stems measuring 75-90 cm in length. The bloom size is usually 10-15cm and provides a dramatic display of orange, purple and blue.

Available year-round from Central America.

Care & Handling:

  • Remove any leaves that will be immersed in water.
  • Cut the bottom 1/2 inch off each stem at an angle using a sharp knife. (Do not use scissors as they can crush flower stems and prevent proper hydration, thus shortening the life of the flower.)
  • Make sure to use a clean vase.
  • Mix one liter of lukewarm water with the package of Grower Direct Fresh Cut Flower Food (provided with your flowers)
  • Be sure to measure carefully when adding food into the water as the proper quantities both feed the flower and inhibit bacteria growth.
  • Do not place flowers near heat (ie. Refrigerator or television), extreme cold, drafts, smoke fumes or in direct sunlight.
  • Water quality makes a big difference. Do not use softened water as it may reduce the life of the flowers. Use regular drinking water and if the water becomes cloudy, change it, add additional flower food and re-cut the flowers.
  • Remove the bloom once it shrivels and work the next bloom out of the bract.Each bract contains 2 to 3 blooms.

 

Design Suggestions:

  • Use as a focal flower in vase arrangements.
  • Mix with other tropical flowers and foliage.
  • Excellent for various novelty designs.
  • For a Thanksgiving design, feature the blossom as a turkey head.
  • For a “Get Well” bud vase, use chenille stems to make miniature glasses and place on “nose” of bloom, glue a bouncy eye on the flower and you have created a face to make someone smile!