If you’re looking for a bold and beautiful plant to transform your garden or indoor space, you may be considering strelitzia nicolai or reginae. Known for their striking foliage and exotic flowers, both options add drama and architectural flair, but they bring different qualities to your planting plans. Whether you’re drawn to the lofty presence of the Natal Wild Banana or the iconic charm of the Bird of Paradise, understanding the differences and advantages of each will help you make the best choice for your New Zealand garden.

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.
From $43.13

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.
From $43.13
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