Bird of Paradise, Strelitzia Seed

Strelitzia reginae Bird of Paradise Seed

Iconic orange-and-blue birdlike flowers rise above tropical foliage
Upright banana-shaped leaves bring year-round architectural appeal
Performs indoors or outside during reliably warm weather
Mature blooms are long-lasting and excellent for cutting

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Key Attributes

Botanical Name

Strelitzia reginae

Sun

Full Sun

Packet

10 Seeds

Zones 10–12 Check your growing zone

About Strelitzia reginae, Bird of Paradise Seed, Bird of Paradise Seed

Bird of Paradise is a popular subtropical foliage plant is well-known for its exotic large, upright, banana-like leaves and extraordinary flowers. Strelitzia reginae is the most common and widely used Strelitzia for pots and cut flower culture. It makes for a great houseplant and can be used outdoors during warmer periods as well. Strelitzia reginae grows striking orange and blue flowers nestled within its grey/green leaves. These long-lasting flowers usually appear 3 to 5 years after germination. Also an air purifying indoor plant.

Growing details

Planting

Sow Depth

1/4"

Days to Germination

21–60 days

Germination Type

H - Mechanical Scarification

Plant profile

Life Cycle

Tender Perennial

Hardiness Zone

Zones 10-12

Plant Height

Above 96 inches

Growth Habits

Clumping, Upright

Seed & variety

Seeds Per Ounce

131

Seed Type

Open Pollinated

Before Planting

Bird of Paradise benefits from a warm site with bright light or full sun and protection from frost and strong wind. Prepare fertile, organic-rich soil or potting mix that drains freely, and use a container with adequate drainage when growing indoors. Remove the orange seed tuft and soak seed for 24–48 hours before sowing.

Planting

Scarify bird of paradise seed, remove any orange tuft, and soak it in warm water for 24–48 hours. Sow about 1/2–1 inch deep in sterile, free-draining mix at 75–85°F. Keep moist but aerated; germination may take several weeks or months. Pot seedlings individually and avoid damaging their fleshy roots.

Watering

Water deeply when the upper 1–2 inches of soil become dry. Maintain steadier moisture during active growth, reduce watering in winter, and empty saucers to prevent root rot.

Fertilizer

Feed monthly during active spring and summer growth with a balanced fertilizer at label strength. Reduce or stop during winter, and flush containers periodically to limit salt buildup.

Harvesting

Cut bird of paradise flower stalks when the first orange floret begins emerging from the green bract. Remove the stalk near its base with clean shears while leaving healthy foliage undamaged.

Tips

Give bird of paradise abundant light to encourage flowering and rotate containers for balanced growth. Avoid dividing or repotting too frequently, because slightly crowded mature plants often bloom more reliably.

Pests & Diseases

Bird of paradise may develop Phytophthora or Pythium root rot, bacterial wilt, Botrytis blight, and fungal leaf spots. Yellowing, soft dark roots, collapsing stems, gray mold, or spreading lesions indicate trouble. Use sterile, free-draining mix, avoid standing water, improve airflow, keep foliage dry, isolate affected plants, and sanitize tools.

Scale, mealybugs, spider mites, and thrips may collect along bird of paradise leaves and stems. Inspect crevices, wipe pests away, isolate affected plants, and repeat labeled soap or oil treatments.