Name: The Plant Company
Address: 284 Meeanee Road, Meeanee, Napier, 4112, New Zealand
Telephone: 0800 843 752
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small bird of paradise plant

A small bird of paradise plant is the perfect choice for New Zealand gardeners looking to add a splash of the tropics to their home or garden, while keeping things manageable in size. Known for its striking architectural shape and vibrant flowers that resemble a bird in flight, the small bird of paradise plant brings a touch of exotic flair without taking over your outdoor space or indoor corner. Whether you're brightening up a patio, creating a focal point in your garden, or looking for a standout houseplant, these compact Strelitzia species offer bold colour, texture, and resilience.

Sophora microphylla specimen tree covered in yellow flowers.

Sophora microphylla (Small Leaved Kōwhai)

Sophora microphylla, commonly known as Weeping Kowhai, is a treasured New Zealand native tree admired for its graceful, drooping branches and masses of golden yellow flowers in spring. This semi-evergreen species is highly attractive to native birds such as tui and bellbirds, which feed on its nectar.

Buy Sophora microphylla (Small Leaved Kōwhai)

From $28.91

Suited to regions: All regions

Plant type: Trees

Height: 8.00 m

Spread: 5.00 m

Flowering time: Spring

Tolerances: Hardy, Wet, Wind

Garden uses: Parks, Ponds, Screening, Specimen

Garden styles: Alpine, Backyard, City & Courtyard, Frontyard, Japanese, Modern, Native

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

What Is a Small Bird of Paradise Plant?

When searching for a small bird of paradise plant, gardeners are often after a Strelitzia variety with a more compact growth habit. One excellent option is the Strelitzia parvifolia (Spoonleaf Bird of Paradise), which is renowned for its smaller size compared to other bird of paradise plants. Growing to about 1 to 1.5 metres tall, this species is perfect for smaller garden beds, courtyards, or indoor display. The spoon-shaped leaves and iconic orange and blue flowers provide all the appeal of a traditional bird of paradise, in a more modest package.

Choosing Your Ideal Bird of Paradise

If you're specifically after a small bird of paradise plant, Strelitzia parvifolia (Spoonleaf Bird of Paradise) is an excellent pick, but there are other stunning Strelitzia species depending on your space and preference. For standard-sized gardens, Strelitzia reginae (Strelitzia) is the classic option, admired for its brilliant blooms and robust nature. If you love the bird of paradise look but want something slightly different, consider the golden hues of Strelitzia Mandelas Gold (Yellow Crane Flower), which adds a unique twist with its vibrant yellow flowers.

For those with more room to spare, the majestic Strelitzia nicolai (Natal Wild Banana) and Strelitzia alba (White Bird Of Paradise ) make a striking statement, each offering taller growth and lush, tropical foliage.

Growing and Caring for Small Bird of Paradise Plants

Caring for a small bird of paradise plant is refreshingly straightforward. These hardy perennials thrive in well-drained soil, with regular watering during dry spells and a spot in full or part sun. They are remarkably tolerant of wind and salt, making them suitable for coastal gardens or exposed locations across Aotearoa. Indoors, provide bright light and occasional feeding to encourage healthy growth and blooms.

Regularly remove any old or damaged leaves to keep your plant tidy and ensure it puts energy into producing new ones. In cooler regions, plants can be kept in pots and brought indoors during frosts, helping them thrive year after year.

Design Ideas and Plant Uses

The small bird of paradise plant is wonderfully versatile. Use it as a focal point in mixed borders, mass-plant for a bold tropical statement, or keep it in containers to brighten decks, patios, or indoor living spaces. Because of its manageable size, it's ideal for smaller urban gardens or apartments. Pair with other subtropical favourites or surround with low-growing perennials for a lush, layered look.

Explore our full range of stunning Strelitzia species, from the compact Strelitzia parvifolia (Spoonleaf Bird of Paradise) to the unique Strelitzia alba (White Bird Of Paradise ), and discover which bird of paradise plant will best fit your garden dreams.

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.

small bird of paradise plant

Sophora microphylla (Small Leaved Kōwhai)

Strelitzia reginae (Orange Bird Of Paradise)

Did you find what you are looking for?

What Is a Small Bird of Paradise Plant?

Choosing Your Ideal Bird of Paradise

Growing and Caring for Small Bird of Paradise Plants

Design Ideas and Plant Uses

Contact us

Explore Garden Inspiration

small bird of paradise plant

Sophora microphylla (Small Leaved Kōwhai)

Strelitzia reginae (Orange Bird Of Paradise)

Did you find what you are looking for?

What Is a Small Bird of Paradise Plant?

Choosing Your Ideal Bird of Paradise

Growing and Caring for Small Bird of Paradise Plants

Design Ideas and Plant Uses

Contact us

Explore Garden Inspiration

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