Bird of Paradise

Strelitzia reginae, the bird-of-paradise or crane flower, is a perennial native to the Eastern Cape of South Africa. Its vivid orange and blue-purple flowers — resembling the head and plumage of a tropical bird in flight — are among the most recognisable flowers in the world. It serves as the official flower of both South Africa and the city of Los Angeles. The plant produces paddle-shaped, leathery, bluish-green leaves on long petioles, typically reaching 1–1.5 m in height. A sun-loving plant, it thrives in the brightest available position and tolerates direct sunlight. Water thoroughly in the growing season (spring to autumn), reducing in winter; it is moderately drought-tolerant. Root-bound conditions actually encourage flowering — avoid over-potting. Cold-tolerant to about 10°C, making it more adaptable than many tropical plants. One of the few houseplants that can genuinely be enjoyed for both its foliage and its extraordinary flowers.

Liquid fertilizer 1-2x monthly in spring-fall