Birds of Paradise

Birds of Paradise is a stunning, tropical plant known for its striking, bird-like flowers that bloom in vibrant hues of orange, blue, and purple. Reaching heights of 3-5 feet, it thrives in sunny spots and brings a tropical flair to any garden or home. This plant adds a touch of elegance with its tall, spiky flowers resembling a bird in flight, making it an excellent statement piece in both indoor and outdoor spaces. With its lush, glossy leaves, it serves as a natural focal point in landscapes, while its long-lasting blooms attract attention and admiration. Birds of Paradise is also an easy-care plant, requiring minimal maintenance to flourish and can adapt to various climates, adding beauty and charm to any garden. Ideal for brightening up patios, decks, or garden beds, it provides year-round greenery, making it a fantastic choice for those who love vibrant, low-maintenance plants with a tropical touch.

Also Known As: Strelitzia Reginae, Bird of Paradise, Crane Flower, Orange Bird of Paradise, Giant Bird of Paradise, Wild Banana, Southern Bird of Paradise, Peacock Flower, Crane Plant, Paradise Flower, White Bird of Paradise.

Plant Name:	Birds of Paradise
Latin Name:	Strelitzia reginae
Days to Germinate:	21-56
Days to Bloom:	3 - 4 Years
Plant Height:	3 - 4 Feet
Spread:	3 - 5 Feet
Bloom Diameter:	5 - 6 Inches
Growth Habit:	Clumping
USDA Zones:	8-12
Lifespan:	Perennial
Brand:	TomorrowSeeds
Sunlight:	Full Sun, Partial Shade
Pollination:	Heirloom, Open-Pollinated
GMO:	No
Fungicide-Treated Seeds*:	No
Seeds Packed For**:	2025

*Fungicide-treated seeds protect the seedlings from diseases until they are up and growing. Do not eat treated seeds.
**Seeds are freshly packed for the growing season of the year listed. Seeds are still viable beyond pack date. Store in a cool and dry location such as the refrigerator or basement to best preserve germination rates.

Planting Instructions:

Soil Preparation:

Choose a clear, sunny location that is not in the shade of other trees and receives at least 6 hours of sunlight each day. Trees establish roots better in sandy, well-drained soils rather than heavy, poorly drained soil. Remove weeds, large rocks, and litter from the planting area. Leave small weeds and dead grass, they will enrich the soil when turned under. Spade or till the soil 6-8 inches deep. Loosening the soil will help the plant establish strong roots. If the soil is heavy or clay-like, mix in some sand or compost to improve drainage. Optionally, either form rows of soil beds or hills 4-6 inches high and at least 5 feet apart. This formation of ridges will help with drainage, ensure good airflow, and make harvesting or maintenance easier.

Planting:

Starting Indoors: Seeds do not require pre-treatment but would benefit from soaking in hot, 142F tap water 12-24 hours before sowing. To germinate seeds, place seeds in moist sand or wrapped in a moist paper towel in bags in a warm 70F-90F area. Allow about 3-6 weeks for germination. Check every other day. Once roots are visible, sow in moist potting soil and place in a sunny area that is at least 70F, about 1 month before the last expected frost in spring. Keep the soil moist, allowing the top inch of soil to dry in between waterings.

Once the seedlings have developed a few sets of leaves and are at least 6 inches in height, harden off seedlings then transplant outdoors in the spring, in a sunny location when temperatures are consistently above 70F. To transplant seedlings, prepare a transplant hole outdoors in a sunny, permanent location. Remove the plants carefully from the pots or flats and set them in the transplant holes, burying some of the stem in the ground. Pack the soil loosely around the plant and leave a slightly sunken area around each plant to hold water. Water the plants after transplanting.

Directly Sowing: To germinate seeds, soak seeds 12-24 hours in tap water prior to sowing. Plant in spring once the soil reaches ast least 70F. To plant, make holes 1 inch deep and spaced 3-5 feet apart down the rows of raised beds. Plant 1 seed per hole, then cover thinly with soil. Seedbeds can be covered with plastic film to promote germination. Water after planting.

Planting Depth:	1 inch
Within-Row Spacing:	3-5 feet
Between-Row Spacing:	5 feet

Care During the Season:

Birds of Paradise benefits from consistent watering, keeping the soil evenly moist but never soggy, allowing the top inch to dry out between waterings. Feeding with a balanced fertilizer every two to four weeks encourages strong growth and abundant blooms. In fall and winter, reduce watering and feeding as growth slows, but continue to provide bright light. Protect from frost by bringing potted plants indoors or covering outdoor plants in colder regions. Pruning spent flowers and damaged leaves helps maintain a tidy appearance, while occasional misting increases humidity and promotes healthy foliage. Regularly checking for pests like spider mites and mealybugs ensures a thriving, vibrant plant year-round.