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bird of paradise plant size

Wondering about bird of paradise plant size? Whether you’re considering this spectacular plant for your New Zealand garden or as a striking indoor feature, understanding how big your bird of paradise will grow is crucial. Luckily, the bird of paradise family, formally known as Strelitzia, offers a range of sizes to suit different spaces—from compact forms perfect for pots to towering specimens suited for landscaping. On this page, we'll cover the typical sizes you can expect from the most popular varieties, tips for encouraging healthy growth, and advice for placing bird of paradise plants in your garden.

Strelitzia nicolai

Strelitzia nicolai (Giant White Bird Of Paradise) is a bold, architectural plant known for its large banana like leaves and striking white and blue flowers. This tropical looking plant creates a dramatic feature in NZ gardens and indoor spaces.

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From $39.95

Suited to regions: Subtropical, Temperate

Plant type: Perennials

Height: 8.00 m

Spread: 4.00 m

Flowering time: Spring, Summer, Autumn

Tolerances: Coastal

Garden uses: Containers, Living areas, Pool areas, Screening

Garden styles: Backyard, City & Courtyard, Coastal, Frontyard, Japanese, Modern, Tropical

Strelitzia reginae (Orange Bird Of Paradise)

Strelitzia reginae (Crane Flower, Bird Of Paradise) is an iconic tropical plant known for its bold orange and blue flowers that resemble a bird in flight. This striking plant thrives in NZ conditions and adds colour, structure, and a tropical feel to gardens and containers.

Buy Strelitzia reginae (Orange Bird Of Paradise)

From $39.95

Suited to regions: Subtropical, Temperate

Plant type: Perennials

Height: 1.50 m

Spread: 1.25 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

How Big Does a Bird of Paradise Plant Grow?

The bird of paradise genus comprises several species, each with its own growth habits. Here’s an overview of the bird of paradise plant size for the main types found in New Zealand nurseries:

Strelitzia reginae (Strelitzia)

This iconic orange-flowered bird of paradise is renowned for its manageable size. Strelitzia reginae (Strelitzia) typically reaches a mature height of 1.2 to 1.8 metres, with a similar spread. Its compact nature makes it a favourite for patio containers or sheltered garden beds.

Strelitzia alba (White Bird Of Paradise)

A more robust option, Strelitzia alba (White Bird Of Paradise ) can grow to around 6 metres tall, with lush, banana-like leaves. The impressive bird of paradise plant size makes it an excellent choice for creating privacy screens or a tropical accent.

Strelitzia nicolai (Natal Wild Banana)

The largest species, Strelitzia nicolai (Natal Wild Banana), boasts a mature size of up to 7 metres high and wide. It forms a dramatic clump, notable for its bold foliage and ability to fill large, sunny spaces—ideal for landscaping or as a statement tree.

Strelitzia parvifolia (Spoonleaf Bird of Paradise)

If you’re after something compact, Strelitzia parvifolia (Spoonleaf Bird of Paradise) remains petite, typically growing under 1 metre. This species is perfect for smaller garden corners or ornamental pot displays.

Strelitzia Mandelas Gold (Yellow Crane Flower)

Strelitzia Mandelas Gold (Yellow Crane Flower) closely resembles Strelitzia reginae in form, with a height of 1.5 to 2 metres. Its unique yellow flowers and moderate bird of paradise plant size make it suitable for mixed borders and courtyard gardens.

Growing Tips for Your Bird of Paradise

To achieve the full bird of paradise plant size potential, place your plant in a spot with plenty of sun, shelter from harsh winds, and well-drained soil. Regular feeding and occasional repotting for potted specimens will keep growth vigorous. For larger species, allow enough space to accommodate their mature size and dramatic foliage.

Choosing the Right Bird of Paradise for Your Space

Matching bird of paradise plant size to your garden is key. Want a bold tropical effect? Try Strelitzia nicolai (Natal Wild Banana) or Strelitzia alba (White Bird Of Paradise ) for their impressive height. Need a smaller profile? Strelitzia reginae (Strelitzia), Strelitzia parvifolia (Spoonleaf Bird of Paradise), or Strelitzia Mandelas Gold (Yellow Crane Flower) are great options.

Explore our range of Strelitzia species to find the perfect plant in the right size for your New Zealand garden.

Contact us

Whether you need assistance finding the plant you’re looking for or you simply want to know more about who we are and what we do, we invite you to get in touch with us today. A member of The Plant Company team will get back in touch as soon as possible.

bird of paradise plant size

Strelitzia nicolai

Strelitzia reginae (Orange Bird Of Paradise)

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