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giant bird of paradise nz

Giant bird of paradise NZ searches are booming as Kiwi gardeners hunt for striking architectural plants that bring a lush, subtropical flavour to their outdoor spaces. With dramatic foliage and gorgeous white-blue flowers, the giant bird of paradise (Strelitzia nicolai) is a true statement plant that flourishes throughout much of New Zealand. Whether you’re creating a tropical corner in Auckland, a sheltered patio in Wellington, or hoping to brighten a Christchurch garden, the giant bird of paradise delivers year-round beauty with a wow factor unlike any other. Discover how to grow and care for Strelitzia nicolai, its best uses in NZ gardens, and how it compares to other bird of paradise varieties.

Beilschmiedia tarairi (Taraire) trees growing in a modern garden.

Beilschmiedia tarairi (Taraire)

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Beilschmiedia tarairi, commonly known as the Taraire tree, is a unique, NZ native tree. Its prominent feature is the masses of olive-like, purple fruits through autumn and winter, which are favoured by birds. Also of interest are the leaves, which, when young, are covered in red-brown hairs that disappear as the tree ages.

Suited to regions: All regions
Plant type: Trees
Height: 18.50 m
Spread: 7.00 m
Garden uses: Parks, Ponds, Screening, Specimen
Garden styles: Alpine, Native
strelitzia-reginae--3

Strelitzia reginae (Orange Bird Of Paradise)

5 from 1 customers

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.

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
A Sophora godleyi specimen tree covered in yellow flowers.
Sophora godleyi (Godleys Kowhai)

Sophora godleyi is a magnificent New Zealand native tree valued for its graceful weeping branches and bright yellow flowers that appear in spring...

From$323.65
Sophora longicarinata yellow flowers.
Sophora longicarinata (Limestone Kowhai)

Sophora longicarinata is a rare and beautiful NZ native tree belonging to the kowhai family. This evergreen to semi deciduous species is admired for...

From$323.65
Pseudopanax crassifolius growing in a garden with dark green foliage.
Pseudopanax crassifolius (Lancewood)

Pseudopanax crassifolius, commonly known as Lancewood or Horoeka, is a distinctive New Zealand native tree renowned for its dramatic transformation...

From$26.15
A large Metrosideros 'Maori Princess' trees in an avenue with masses of red flowers.
Metrosideros 'Maori Princess'

Metrosideros 'Maori Princess' is a stunning cultivar of the NZ Christmas tree (Pohutukawa) and is renowned for its brilliant crimson-red flowers and...

From$30.29
Juncus pallidus (Giant Rush) plants in a landscaped garden.
Juncus pallidus (Giant Rush)

Juncus pallidus, commonly known as the Giant Rush, features erect, dark green leaves and grows as a tidy clump, reaching approximately 75 cm in...

From$16.49
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Grevillea 'Eureka'

Grevillea 'Eureka' adds distinctive interest to NZ planting. Its drought tolerance and ability to withstand coastal conditions ensure it remains a...

From$24.95
Vitex lucens (Puriri) lush, green foliage.
Vitex lucens

Vitex lucens, commonly known as Puriri, is a striking New Zealand native tree prized for its lush foliage, vibrant pink to red tubular flowers, and...

From$270.40
Grevillea lanigera 'Mt Tamboritha' pink flowers amidst dark green foliage.
Grevillea lanigera 'Mt Tamboritha'

Grevillea lanigera 'Mt Tamboritha' is a popular evergreen groundcover shrub admired for its dense, spreading habit and masses of pink and cream...

From$24.95
Corokia 'Geentys Giant' green leaves.
Corokia 'Geenty's Giant'

Corokia 'Geenty's Giant' is a hardy, NZ native shrub that bears green-yellow foliage held densely on slender, upright branches. Masses of small...

From$17.95
Knightia excelsa (Rewarewa) specimen tree in a park.
Knightia excelsa

Knightia excelsa, commonly known as Rewarewa, is an impressive NZ native tree featuring showy flowers and lush foliage. Unusual yet attractive, dark...

From$270.40
Hedycarya arborea tree with lush green foliage.
Hedycarya arborea

Hedycarya arborea, commonly known as Pigeonwood, is a New Zealand native tree valued for its attractive foliage and wildlife benefits. This evergreen...

From$494.05
camellia-sasanqua-paradise-helen-
Camellia 'Paradise Helen'

Camellia 'Paradise Helen' is a graceful evergreen shrub that produces soft pink blooms, adding elegance and seasonal colour to New Zealand gardens...

From$28.95
Cyperus ustulatus growing in water.
Cyperus ustulatus (Giant Umbrella Sedge)

Cyperus ustulatus, commonly known as the Giant Umbrella Sedge, is a large and robust NZ native grass. It grows as a clump and produces dark green...

From$17.25
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Bird netting - 4 m x 50 m roll

This netting has been manufactured from superior, UV stabilised, HDPE monofilament yarn, and comes with a 10-year UV warranty. The holes are shaped...

From$317.40
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Camellia 'Paradise Belinda'

Camellia 'Paradise Belinda' is a stunning evergreen shrub prized for its soft pink blooms that bring colour and elegance to New Zealand gardens...

From$28.95
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Camellia 'Paradise Pearl'

Camellia 'Paradise Pearl' is an elegant evergreen shrub known for its beautiful soft white to blush toned flowers that bring brightness and...

From$28.95
camellia-sasanqua-paradise-vanessa-1
Camellia 'Paradise Vanessa'

Camellia 'Paradise Vanessa' is a beautiful evergreen shrub that produces soft pink blooms, bringing elegance and seasonal colour to New Zealand...

From$28.95
A Cornus controversa (Giant Dogwood) specimen tree.
Cornus controversa

Cornus controversa, commonly known as the Giant Dogwood, is a medium-sized, deciduous tree that features lush foliage that emerges mid-green in...

From$399.95
Libertia grandiflora plant with elegant white flowers and lush, dark green foliage.
Libertia grandiflora (NZ Iris)

Libertia grandiflora, commonly known as NZ Iris, is a hardy New Zealand native perennial admired for its elegant white flowers and sword like green...

From$16.50
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Sequoiadendron giganteum

Sequoiadendron giganteum (Giant Redwood) is one of the world's most impressive and majestic conifer trees, valued for its towering growth habit, rich...

From$270.40
Camellia 'Paradise Blush' plant with pink and white flowers against dark green foliage.
Camellia 'Paradise Blush'

Camellia 'Paradise Blush' is a beautiful evergreen shrub that produces soft blush pink flowers, adding gentle colour and elegance to New Zealand...

From$28.95
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Azalea 'Paradise Elfin'

Azalea 'Paradise Elfin' is a compact evergreen azalea prized for its masses of colourful blooms and tidy rounded growth habit. Flowering generously...

From$26.95
Thuja plicata 'Green Giant' trees standing 5 m tall as a lush, green screen.
Thuja 'Green Giant'

Thuja 'Green Giant' is a smaller variety of Cedar and bears sprays of glossy, dark green foliage held on slender stems. The result is a tree with a...

From$16.95
Ajuga 'Catlins Giant' plants with green foliage and blue flowers growing in a garden bed.
Ajuga 'Catlins Giant'

Ajuga 'Catlins Giant' (Bugleweed Plant) is a vigorous evergreen groundcover valued for its large glossy dark green leaves and striking blue flower...

From$18.63
Chusquea gigantea plant with bamboo stems and green foliage.
Chusquea gigantea

Chusquea gigantea (Giant Bamboo) is an impressive clumping bamboo admired for its towering canes, graceful arching foliage, and non invasive growth...

From$56.51
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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...

OUT OF STOCK
Strelitzia parvifolia flower and foliage.
Strelitzia parvifolia (Spoonleaf Bird of Paradise)

Strelitzia parvifolia is an elegant evergreen perennial prized for its upright growth, slender blue green foliage, and striking bird like flowers in...

OUT OF STOCK
Banksia Bird Song shrub with orange flowers.
Banksia 'Bird Song'

Banksia 'Bird Song' is an attractive evergreen shrub valued for its distinctive flower spikes, dense foliage, and strong architectural form. The...

OUT OF STOCK
Grevillea 'Ignite' plant.
Grevillea 'Ignite'

Grevillea 'Ignite', commonly known as Spider Flower, is a fast growing, dense shrub which is grown for its spikes of exquisite, bright red and...

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Camellia sasanqua 'Paradise Diana' bright pink flower.
Camellia sasanqua 'Paradise Diana'

Camellia sasanqua 'Paradise Diana' is a beautiful evergreen shrub admired for its soft pink semi double blooms and glossy green foliage. Flowering...

OUT OF STOCK
Beilschmiedia tarairi (Taraire)

Did you find what you are looking for?

You might be interested in exploring related Latin Names - Beilschmiedia, Grevillea, and Juncus, or related Categories - Grasses, Groundcover Plants, and Perennials.

Search giant bird of paradise nz

What is the Giant Bird of Paradise?

The giant bird of paradise NZ gardeners love is botanically known as Strelitzia nicolai. Native to South Africa, this spectacular plant boasts enormous paddle-shaped leaves and large, dramatic flower structures reminiscent of exotic birds in flight. In warmer parts of New Zealand, Strelitzia nicolai can reach several metres in height. Its robust stems and evergreen foliage make it ideal for screening, windbreaking, and creating private outdoor retreats.

Explore our range:
Strelitzia nicolai (Natal Wild Banana) – perfect for subtropical gardens and patio features.

Growing Giant Bird of Paradise NZ: Care & Tips

Giant bird of paradise is surprisingly easy to grow in New Zealand when given the right conditions. Choose a spot with full sun to part shade, shelter from strong wind, and free-draining soil. While it’s tolerant of coastal sites and dry periods, regular watering and occasional feeding will encourage lush growth and prolific flowering. Strelitzia nicolai is best suited to frost-free regions, but can be grown indoors or in containers in cooler climates.

Looking for smaller or differently coloured bird of paradise options?
Try Strelitzia reginae (Strelitzia) for vivid orange-blue blooms.
Explore Strelitzia Mandelas Gold (Yellow Crane Flower) for a unique yellow twist.
For compact gardens, consider Strelitzia parvifolia (Spoonleaf Bird of Paradise).

Plant Uses: Creating Tropical NZ Gardens

Giant bird of paradise NZ plants are a popular choice for residential gardens, courtyards, and landscape projects. Their bold foliage creates an instant sense of drama and privacy, making them ideal for screening unsightly fences or forming living walls. Use Strelitzia nicolai as a specimen plant, combine with palms or tarairi for rich texture, or anchor subtropical planting beds.

Mix with New Zealand natives such as Beilschmiedia tarairi (Taraire) to create a lush oasis with stunning contrast between broad exotic leaves and local species.

Why Choose Giant Bird of Paradise NZ?

Strelitzia nicolai is a top choice for plant lovers wanting low-maintenance glamour and year-round greenery. Its resilience, unique flowers, and commanding size make it a must-have in modern NZ landscapes. Whether used as a screen, focal point, or patio feature, the giant bird of paradise will transform any garden with tropical flair.

Start your garden transformation with the giant bird of paradise NZ – and enjoy big-leaf beauty no matter where you are in New Zealand.


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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.

–The Plant Company

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