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bird of paradise height

If you’re considering adding exotic flair to your garden, understanding the bird of paradise height is essential for planning your landscape. These striking plants are valued not only for their bold, tropical foliage and vibrant flowers but also for their impressive vertical presence. In New Zealand gardens, bird of paradise species thrive outdoors in mild regions, or can be kept as lush indoor plants that command attention with their stature. But just how tall does a bird of paradise grow, and which variety is best for your space? Let’s explore the height of different Strelitzia species to help guide your planting decisions.

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Strelitzia nicolai (Natal Wild Banana)

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Strelitzia nicolai, commonly known as Natal Wild Banana or Giant White Bird Of Paradise, produces multiple stems that host large, fresh-green leaves. In the home garden it typically grows to just 2 m tall and 1.5 m wide. The flower resembles the head of the bird, with a white crest and purple beak, and are borne throughout the year. Strelitzia nicolai is commonly included in tropical plantings, planted around pools or against stark walls, used to line an entranceway, or maintained in a large container.

Suited to regions: Subtropical, Temperate
Plant type: Perennials
Height: 2.00 m
Spread: 1.50 m
Flowering time: Spring, Summer, Autumn
Tolerances: Coastal
Garden uses: Containers, Living areas, Pool areas
Garden styles: Backyard, City & Courtyard, Coastal, Frontyard, Japanese, Modern, Tropical
strelitzia-reginae--3

Strelitzia reginae (Strelitzia)

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Strelitzia reginae, commonly known as the Crane Flower or Bird Of Paradise, produces spectacular orange flowers with a blue highlight through spring and summer. The foliage comprises large and glossy, dark green leaves which are aesthetic year-round as it grows to 1.5 m tall and 2 m wide. Strelitzia reginae is commonly included in tropical plantings, planted around pools and other outdoor living areas, used to line an entranceway, or maintained in a container.

Suited to regions: Subtropical, Temperate
Plant type: Perennials
Height: 1.50 m
Spread: 2.00 m
Flowering time: Spring, Summer
Tolerances: Coastal
Garden uses: Containers, Living areas, Pool areas
Garden styles: Architectural, Backyard, City & Courtyard, Coastal, Frontyard, Japanese, Modern, Tropical
strelitzia-reginae-mandelas-gold-

Strelitzia Mandelas Gold (Yellow Crane Flower)

Strelitzia reginae Mandelas Gold, commonly known as Yellow Crane Flower or Yellow Bird Of Paradise, produces spectacular yellow flowers through...

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Camellia sasanqua 'Paradise Diana' bright pink flower.

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Bird netting - 4 m x 50 m roll

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Pseudopanax crassifolius growing in a garden with dark green foliage.

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Strelitzia nicolai (Natal Wild Banana)

Did you find what you are looking for?

You might be interested in exploring related Latin Names - Alectryon, Aristotelia, Azalea, Beilschmiedia, Camellia, Coprosma, Cordyline, Grape, Grevillea, Knightia, Kunzea, Metrosideros, Phormium, Pseudopanax, Pyracantha, Sansevieria, Schoenoplectus Strelitzia and Tecomaria, or related Categories - Bird netting, Flaxes, Grapevines, Grasses, Indoor Plants, Perennials, Deciduous Shrubs, Evergreen Azaleas, Evergreen Shrubs Deciduous Trees and Evergreen Trees.

Search bird of paradise height

Understanding Bird of Paradise Height

The term "bird of paradise" refers primarily to plants in the Strelitzia genus. These South African natives vary significantly in size depending on the species. The standard Strelitzia reginae (Strelitzia) is the most commonly grown bird of paradise in New Zealand gardens and typically reaches a height of 1.5 to 2 metres when mature. This makes it ideal for both outdoor landscaping and as a feature pot plant indoors.

Choosing the Right Species for Your Space

If you’re seeking a bolder statement, the Strelitzia nicolai (Natal Wild Banana) is famed for its grand bird of paradise height, often soaring to 6 metres or more under ideal conditions. With banana-like leaves and white bird-of-paradise flowers, it can quickly become the centrepiece of large gardens or atriums. For an even taller option, the Strelitzia alba (White Bird Of Paradise ) can reach heights similar to Strelitzia nicolai, making it a popular choice for those wanting lofty, tropical greenery.

Those with limited space don’t have to miss out on the bird of paradise’s striking look. Compact species like the Strelitzia parvifolia (Spoonleaf Bird of Paradise) generally maintain a bird of paradise height of around 1 metre, ideally suiting containers or smaller gardens. If you’re looking for something a bit more unique in flower colour, Strelitzia Mandelas Gold (Yellow Crane Flower) is a golden-flowered variety of reginae with a similar mature height, perfect for adding a splash of sunshine to your landscape without overwhelming the space.

How to Manage and Maximise Bird of Paradise Height

Bird of paradise plants tend to respond well to good care and conditions. If you want your plant to attain its optimal height, provide it with bright, indirect sunlight (or full sun outdoors), well-drained soil, and regular feeding during the growing season. Indoor specimens may grow a bit shorter than their outdoor counterparts, but they still provide wonderful architectural form.

If managing size is important, regular pruning of old leaves and flowers can keep your bird of paradise looking tidy and encourage new, healthy growth. For those who love lush, dense foliage but don’t want towering heights, picking smaller species—or growing large varieties in pots to limit root space—will keep your garden in balance.

Summary

The bird of paradise height varies widely by species, from just over 1 metre to more than 6 metres tall. When selecting a plant, consider both your aesthetics and space. Whether you opt for the compact charm of Strelitzia parvifolia (Spoonleaf Bird of Paradise) or the grandeur of Strelitzia nicolai (Natal Wild Banana), you’ll enjoy lush, tropical beauty for years to come. For more specific options for New Zealand gardens, browse our collection of bird of paradise varieties today.


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