The bird of paradise flower (Strelitzia reginae) symbolizes freedom, joy, individuality, faithfulness and paradise. Its bird-like shape suggests flight and freedom, its orange and blue colors suggest joy, and florists list it as the traditional ninth wedding anniversary flower. It is also the official floral emblem of the City of Los Angeles.
Key Takeaways
- The bird of paradise (Strelitzia reginae), also called the crane flower, is native to South Africa.
- Its main meanings are freedom, joy, uniqueness, faithfulness, success and paradise.
- Florists list it as the traditional ninth wedding anniversary flower, and it is the floral emblem of Los Angeles.
- The plant grows outdoors in USDA zones 10 to 12 and indoors as a bright-light houseplant.
- The ASPCA lists Strelitzia reginae as toxic to dogs, cats and horses (mainly the fruit and seeds).
The bird of paradise flower (Strelitzia) is most often associated with freedom, individuality, glamour, faithfulness, joy and paradise.
The Secret Language of Bird of Paradise Flowers: Unraveling Their Symbolism and Meanings
The bird of paradise is native to South Africa and is now grown as an ornamental in warm climates around the world. This guide explains what the flower symbolizes, where those meanings come from, and how to grow and care for the plant.
Detailed Meaning of Bird of Paradise
Freedom
Because the bird of paradise looks like a graceful, long-necked bird, it is also called the crane flower. Its long stem and vibrant blossoms resemble the head of a bird with a plume of brilliant flowers on it and a sharp beak. These enchanted blooms develop in clusters that resemble a flock of colorful tropical birds poised for flight. Consequently, the bird of paradise flower represents freedom.
Opportunity
This South African native is also read as a symbol of opportunity. Some writers link that meaning to South Africa’s transition away from apartheid and the new freedoms it brought. In that interpretation, the bird of paradise stands for new liberties and the potential for prosperity.
Identity and Uniqueness
The largest species, Strelitzia nicolai, can reach about 33 feet (10 meters), according to Wikipedia. The bird of paradise stands out from other flowers because of its unusual blossoms, which is why it represents individuality and uniqueness.
This unique blossom represents the self-assurance needed to be unique. They therefore make fantastic presents for a person in your life who is discovering their special path and personal identity as an individual.
Glamour
The bird of paradise (Strelitzia reginae) is the official floral emblem of the City of Los Angeles, California. For many people, the bright flower captures the glamour of Hollywood and the sunny beaches, sunsets and skies of Southern California.
Faithfulness
Many bird species form long-term pair bonds, so a flower named after a bird is often read as a symbol of constancy in relationships. Florists also list the bird of paradise as the traditional flower for a ninth wedding anniversary.
Joy
The vivid colors of the bird of paradise and its sunny native habitat also make it a symbol of joy. This flower has the appearance of having been made specifically to revive people’s spirits. Additionally, the bird of paradise serves as a tropical flower to help us remember to relax and have fun, as on a tropical vacation.
Paradise
As suggested by its name, this beautiful flower also represents paradise. The bird of paradise serves as a reminder that we live in a paradise on Earth. It also serves as a reminder that we may cultivate paradise in our own lives.
Spiritual Meaning of Bird of Paradise
The bird of paradise symbolizes reaching for a more heavenly or elevated spiritual state. The flower’s protracted stalk serves as a metaphor for spiritual ascent and the pursuit of enlightenment.
The bird of paradise also stands for Earth’s paradise. So, on a spiritual level, this flower serves as a reminder that everything we experience and accomplish while on Earth counts. We should strive to live on Earth at a higher frequency or in a more godly manner, in addition to honoring and protecting it as we would a paradise.
Bird of Paradise Flower – What is it?
The bird of paradise is an evergreen perennial for tropical and subtropical climates. NC State Extension lists Strelitzia reginae for USDA Hardiness Zones 10a to 12b; gardeners in Zone 9 sometimes grow it with winter protection.
These evergreen plants like warmth and humidity and keep their leaves all year long. The genus Strelitzia has five accepted species: S. reginae, S. nicolai, S. alba, S. caudata and S. juncea.
Appearance of Bird of Paradise flower
The flower is named for its resemblance to the birds-of-paradise, a family of 44 bird species found mainly in New Guinea, as well as eastern Australia and the Maluku Islands. Males of many of those species have long, brightly colored ornamental feathers.
The flower of the Bird of Paradise plant has petals that closely resemble a bird in flight, especially the head, where some of the petals resemble beaks. Each flower has three orange sepals and three blue (or white) petals, and the flowers emerge one at a time from a broad, boat-shaped bract called a spathe.
It is a tropical plant related to the banana plant that can reach heights of 4 to 6 feet (1.2 to 1.8 meters) and widths of up to 5 feet (1.5 meters). The giant white bird of paradise (Strelitzia nicolai), however, can reach about 33 feet (10 meters).
Which places are native to Bird of Paradise?
Native to South Africa, notably the subtropical coastal regions, are plants known as birds of paradise. This flower, a member of the Strelitziaceae family, is now widely planted as an ornamental in warm parts of the Americas and elsewhere. It is sometimes described as Portugal’s national flower; the sources consulted do not confirm an official designation, though the plant is popular in Portuguese gardens.
How to grow Bird of Paradise Flower
Although they are very simple to cultivate and maintain, bird of paradise flowers like a lot of natural sunlight, especially when planted indoors. They can handle some shade, though.
The flower enjoys lots of water and does best in warm, humid settings. As they are prone to root rot (especially if grown in a pot), it is preferable to let the soil almost entirely dry before watering it again. Soil with good drainage is ideal for them.
Years are needed for a bird of paradise flowers to develop and blossom. In actuality, it may take your plant up to four years to yield the vivid, bright blooms that give it its name. The ideal temperature range for the flower is between 65 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit. Bring container plants indoors in cooler months. According to Wikipedia, Strelitzia reginae tolerates only light frosts and does not thrive below about 50 degrees Fahrenheit (10 degrees Celsius).
Since bird of paradise plants need a variety of nutrients to continue developing and eventually blossom, using the appropriate fertilizer can help them grow. Many growing guides suggest a balanced fertilizer with an equal NPK (nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium) ratio, such as 1-1-1. Every few months, fertilize the plant. As you spot dead leaves and faded blossoms, prune them.
Symbolism and Meaning of Bird of Paradise
Independence and Freedom
Bird of paradise flowers, as was already noted, look like birds in flight. They are frequently connected with independence and freedom because of this. This plant serves as a reminder that, like birds, we are not captive. We can always break out and investigate our limitless possibilities.
Joy and Laughter
Bird of paradise plants’ vivid hues frequently evoke happiness and gladness. When in full bloom, the flower brightens up any area it grows in with its vivid yellows, oranges, and reds.
Bliss and Paradise
Plants known as bird of paradise are symbolic of paradise, whatever that may be to you. What does bliss mean to you? Perhaps you’re spending a rainy day inside with a cup of coffee, or perhaps you and your lover are vacationing on a balmy island. Whatever the reason, this flower’s stunningly colorful flowers give us a taste of paradise.
Success and Abundance
The bird of paradise is often described as a symbol of luck and prosperity. Its vibrant blossoms and commanding presence symbolize enthusiasm and good fortune for you.
Loyalty and Love
The bird of paradise, the official flower of the ninth wedding anniversary, denotes intense devotion and romantic love. Because many people see the plant as a symbol of faithfulness and commitment, it is a popular bouquet for couples.
What Does Each Color of Bird of Paradise Mean?
The classic Strelitzia reginae flower has orange sepals and blue petals. Orange is usually linked with enthusiasm, warmth and optimism, and blue with calm and trust; see the guides to orange flower meanings and blue flower meanings for more detail. The white bird of paradise (Strelitzia alba) is often associated with purity and peace, the meanings white flowers usually carry.
Types of Bird of Paradise
Botanists recognize five species in the genus Strelitzia, all native to southern Africa. The table below summarizes them using details from Wikipedia.
| Species | Common name | Notable feature |
|---|---|---|
| Strelitzia reginae | Bird of paradise, crane flower | Orange and blue flowers; usually 6.5 to 11.5 feet (2 to 3.5 m) tall |
| Strelitzia nicolai | Giant white bird of paradise | Largest in the genus, up to about 33 feet (10 m) |
| Strelitzia alba | White bird of paradise | White flowers |
| Strelitzia caudata | Mountain strelitzia | One of the five accepted species |
| Strelitzia juncea | African desert banana | One of the five accepted species |
Where Does the Name Strelitzia Come From?
The genus Strelitzia was named by Joseph Banks in honor of Queen Charlotte of Mecklenburg-Strelitz, the British queen. The species name reginae means “of the queen.” Strelitzia reginae was described in 1788, according to Wikipedia. Strelitzia belongs to the order Zingiberales, the same order as bananas, which is why its leaves look like banana leaves.
How Is the Bird of Paradise Pollinated?
In its native South Africa, the bird of paradise is pollinated by sunbirds. When a sunbird perches on the flower to drink nectar, the blue petals open and cover the bird’s feet in pollen, which it carries to the next flower.
Is the Bird of Paradise Toxic to Pets?
Yes. The ASPCA lists Strelitzia reginae as toxic to dogs, cats and horses. Its toxic principles are gastrointestinal irritants, found mainly in the fruit and seeds, and signs include mild nausea, vomiting and drowsiness. The ASPCA also warns not to confuse it with Caesalpinia gilliesii, a shrub also called bird of paradise, which is more toxic. Contact a veterinarian or an animal poison control service if a pet eats any part of the plant.
Bird of Paradise Care at a Glance
| Need | Guidance |
|---|---|
| Hardiness | USDA zones 10a to 12b (NC State Extension) |
| Light | Full sun (6 or more hours of direct sun) to partial shade |
| Soil | Well-drained, loamy soil rich in organic matter |
| Water | Water generously in the growing season and less in winter; overwatering causes root rot |
| Temperature | Tolerates only light frost; does not thrive below 50°F (10°C) |
| Bloom time | Summer and fall (NC State Extension) |
| Propagation | Division of rhizomes |
| Common pests | Mealybugs, scale and spider mites |
Growing the plant indoors? The guide to the best plants to grow indoors covers other houseplants, and the hibiscus meanings and care guide covers another sun-loving tropical flower.
When to Give a Bird of Paradise
- Ninth wedding anniversary: florists list it as the traditional flower for this milestone, standing for faithfulness.
- New beginnings: a new job, move or graduation, matching its meanings of freedom and opportunity.
- Celebrations: its bright colors suit birthdays and congratulations.
- Self-expression: a gift for someone finding their own path, reflecting individuality.
For another flower with layered spiritual meanings, see the guide to lotus flower meaning and symbolism.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a bird of paradise flower symbolize?
The bird of paradise flower symbolizes freedom, joy, individuality, faithfulness, success and paradise. The meanings come from its bird-in-flight shape and its bright orange and blue colors.
Is the bird of paradise a lucky plant?
The bird of paradise is often described as a symbol of good fortune and prosperity. This is a popular symbolic reading rather than a documented tradition of one specific culture.
Which anniversary is the bird of paradise for?
Florists list the bird of paradise as the traditional flower for the ninth wedding anniversary, where it stands for faithfulness.
Is the bird of paradise the official flower of Los Angeles?
Yes. The bird of paradise (Strelitzia reginae) is the official floral emblem of the City of Los Angeles, and it is widely planted in Southern California.
Is bird of paradise safe for cats and dogs?
No. The ASPCA lists Strelitzia reginae as toxic to dogs, cats and horses, mainly through the fruit and seeds, causing mild nausea, vomiting and drowsiness.
Is the bird of paradise related to the banana?
Yes, distantly. Strelitzia belongs to the order Zingiberales, the same order as bananas, and its large leaves resemble banana leaves.
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