The Bird of Paradise, or *Strelitzia*, originally hails from the sunny landscapes of South Africa and the Canary Islands. In those tropical spots, you can spot its extravagant blooms almost all year round! Because the flower looks just like the head of an exotic bird, it’s earned the nickname “Parrot Flower.” If you’re growing one from seed, patience is key—it usually takes about four years before you’ll see that first spectacular bloom.
When does a Bird of Paradise bloom?
In our neck of the woods, a Bird of Paradise can technically bloom year-round, but you’ll mostly see those vibrant colors popping in the spring or summer. Each flower head treats you to a show for about four weeks. The reason the blooming period lasts so long is pretty cool: its three petals open up one by one rather than all at once. Back in its native habitat, the “Parrot Flower” starts its season as early as December and keeps the party going straight through the following summer.
What does the flower look like?
The *Strelitzia* is a total showstopper thanks to its unique shape and electric colors. Here are a few things that make it so special:
- That unmistakable, bizarre “bird-like” silhouette.
- It really does look like a tropical bird’s head!
- Each flower stalk often carries two individual flowers.
- The flowers are hermaphroditic (containing both male and female parts).
- It features 5 stamens and 3 carpels.
- Those boat-shaped bracts (the “beak”) grow horizontally.
- The petals stand about 6 inches tall and reach straight up.
- Color combos range from classic orange-blue and orange-purple to stunning white or even dark blue-and-white.
Tips for getting the best blooms
If you’ve started your plant from seed, expect a wait of about five years before it’s mature enough to flower. The absolute “must-haves” for blooms are plenty of light and warmth. If your Bird of Paradise is stuck in a dark corner or stays too chilly, it’s going to be stubborn about flowering. Also, if you keep yours indoors year-round, watch out for dry air from your heater—that can definitely stall your flower production.
One of the biggest secrets to success is proper overwintering. Whether you keep your plant on the patio or in the living room, it needs a cool “rest period” during the winter to recharge. For outdoor plants, bring them inside once night temperatures hit about 50°F (usually mid-to-late October). Move them to a bright spot that stays around 60°F. During this time, cut back on water—just enough so the root ball doesn’t bone-dry—and skip the fertilizer. This winter nap allows the *Strelitzia* to save up all its energy to put on a massive show the following spring!
