Looking to give your home a tropical vibe? The regal Bird of Paradise plant, with its large leaves and magnificent flowers, is just what you need. Here's how to care for Bird of Paradise plants—from potting to propagation!
Bird of Paradise plants are native to South Africa, though they have come to be associated with tropical scenes across the world and are often used as landscape plants in warmer regions of the United States such as Hawaii, southern California, or Florida. In colder climates, they can be grown indoors as an attractive—and fairly large—houseplant.
The Bird of Paradise gets its common name from its stunning, brightly-colored flower, which resembles a bird in flight. The most common species of Bird of Paradise (Strelitzia reginae) produces an orange and blue flower, while the less-common White Bird of Paradise (S. nicolai) has white flowers highlighted with dark blue.
In ideal conditions (i.e., proper lighting, watering, and temperatures), these plants are capable of producing dozens of long-lasting blooms throughout the year.
Planting
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