Bird of Paradise Strelitzia reginae 'Kirstenbosch Gold'
ABOUT
The Strelitzia reginae 'Kirstenbosch Gold', commonly known as Bird of Paradise, is a striking and unique plant well-known for its vibrant and exotic flowers that resemble a brightly colored bird in flight. The plant produces large, sturdy leaves that are gray-green in color and shaped like a paddle or spoon, giving it a lush, tropical appearance. The real showstoppers are the blooms, which emerge from a beak-like structure known as a spathe. The 'Kirstenbosch Gold' variety of Bird of Paradise is distinct for its golden-orange flowers contrasting beautifully against a dark blue tongue. Each flower is made up of three upright orange sepals and three horizontal blue petals. Two of the blue petals are joined together to form an arrowhead shape, creating the illusion of a bird's head, while the third petal stands alone, forming the nectary at the base of the flower. The plant displays a clumping growth habit, with multiple stems emerging from a central base. The foliage grows in a fan-like pattern and provides a year-round verdant background for the blooms. Throughout the blooming season, the Bird of Paradise can produce multiple flowers, each one lasting for an impressive amount of time before fading. The plant is not only known for its ornamental beauty but also for its hardiness and resilience, making it a popular choice for gardens, patios, or as a statement houseplant in a sufficiently bright indoor space. The overall appearance of the Bird of Paradise is one of exotic elegance and dramatic flair, making it a captivating addition to any plant collection or landscape setting.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Strelitziaceae.
Synonyms
Kirstenbosch Gold Crane Flower, Yellow Crane Flower, Golden Bird of Paradise, Kirstenbosch Gold Bird of Paradise, Kirstenbosch Gold Strelitzia.
Common names
Strelitzia reginae 'Kirstenbosch Gold'.
ToxicityTo humans
The most common common name for Strelitzia reginae 'Kirstenbosch Gold' is Bird of Paradise. It is only mildly toxic to humans. If ingested, it can cause mild nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea due to the presence of toxic compounds like hydrogen cyanide. It is also possible that handling the plant could result in skin irritation or an allergic reaction in some individuals. It is generally advised not to eat any part of the Bird of Paradise plant.
To pets
Bird of Paradise, the common name for Strelitzia reginae 'Kirstenbosch Gold,' is considered toxic to pets, including cats and dogs. If a pet ingests any part of the plant, they may experience symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, and drooling. In severe cases, ingestion can lead to difficulty swallowing, difficulty breathing, and other signs of distress due to the presence of toxic compounds such as hydrogen cyanide. Immediate veterinary attention is recommended if a pet has ingested this plant.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Yellow
Height
3-6 feet (0.9-1.8 meters)
Spread
2-4 feet (0.6-1.2 meters)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
9
Native area
South Africa
Benefits
General Benefits- Attracts wildlife: The bird of paradise is known to attract hummingbirds and other pollinators, which can help maintain ecological balance in the garden.
- Drought tolerance: Once established, it has good resistance to drought, making it suitable for xeriscaping and low-water gardens.
- Ornamental value: With its distinctive, brightly colored flowers and lush foliage, the bird of paradise offers high ornamental value to landscapes and gardens.
- Long blooming period: It has a long flowering season, providing color and interest for an extended period.
- Low maintenance: Requires minimal care beyond basic watering and occasional feeding, making it ideal for those looking for low-maintenance gardening options.
- Heat resistance: The bird of paradise can withstand high temperatures, making it suitable for warm climates.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Display and exhibition: The Bird of Paradise 'Kirstenbosch Gold' is a popular choice for botanical gardens and floral exhibitions due to its unique vibrant yellow flowers and striking appearance.
- Symbolism: In some cultures, the Bird of Paradise is seen as a symbol of freedom and magnificence, which makes it an ideal gift to convey a message of joy and paradise-like bliss.
- Photography: Its exotic look makes Bird of Paradise a highly photogenic plant, sought after by photographers looking for natural beauty and unique floral shots.
- Art inspiration: The distinctive flowers serve as inspiration for artists, who might incorporate the plant's form and color in painting, sculpture, or design.
- Landscape feature: In subtropical and tropical regions, this variety of Bird of Paradise can act as a focal point in landscape architecture, offering a burst of color amongst green foliage.
- Educational tool: Botany educators use the Bird of Paradise to teach about pollination strategies, as birds are the natural pollinators of these flowers.
- Cultural events: The Bird of Paradise is often used in cultural festivals or events, especially within South Africa, to represent the country's rich flora.
- Film and theatre sets: The dramatic profile of the Bird of Paradise can be used to create tropical settings on film and theatre production sets.
- Fashion industry: The shape and colors of the Bird of Paradise have inspired patterns and designs in the fashion industry, from textiles to accessories.
- Theme gardens: Garden designers might use the Bird of Paradise to complement a tropical or exotic themed garden, pairing it with other vibrant plants.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Bird of Paradise is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Bird of Paradise is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Beauty: The Strelitzia reginae 'Kirstenbosch Gold', commonly known as the Bird of Paradise, flaunts unique and striking floral formations which resemble tropical birds, thus symbolizing exceptional beauty.
- Freedom: Just as a bird in flight, the Bird of Paradise represents freedom and the ability to travel and explore.
- Paradise: Its name directly reflects the idea of an earthly paradise, conjuring images of lush, exotic landscapes where everything is abundant and flourishing.
- Royalty: The regal bearing of the flower, vibrant colors, and stately form symbolize dignity, magnificence, and royal lineage. The name 'reginae' itself is Latin for 'of the queen'.
- Joy: The Bird of Paradise flower's vivid colors and unique appearance are often associated with joyfulness and celebration in floral language.
WaterThe Bird of Paradise should be watered deeply, allowing water to reach the roots, approximately once a week during the growing season. In winter, reduce watering to every other week or when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. When watering indoor plants, use approximately a half-gallon of water for a medium-sized pot, being careful not to let the plant sit in water as it may lead to root rot.
LightThe Bird of Paradise thrives under bright, indirect sunlight but can tolerate some direct sunlight. Ideal placement is near a south or west-facing window with some protection, like a sheer curtain during the hottest parts of the day to prevent leaf scorch.
TemperatureThe Bird of Paradise prefers temperatures between 65 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit for optimal growth and can tolerate a range up to 80 degrees Fahrenheit. It should not be exposed to temperatures below 50 degrees Fahrenheit to avoid cold damage.
PruningPruning the Bird of Paradise is necessary to remove old or damaged leaves and to shape the plant. Prune in spring or early summer by cutting back any leaf stalks or flower stems close to the base. This should be done sparingly, as too much pruning can reduce flowering.
CleaningAs needed
SoilBird of Paradise requires well-draining soil with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.5. A mix of equal parts loam, peat, and coarse sand or perlite is ideal to ensure good drainage and aeration.
RepottingBird of Paradise should be repotted every 3 to 5 years or when it becomes root-bound. This timing allows the plant to continue growing without stress.
Humidity & MistingBird of Paradise prefers moderate to high humidity levels, typically around 60% relative humidity, which mimics its native tropical environment.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Provide bright, indirect light and keep the soil moist.
Outdoor
Grow in partial shade and protect from strong winds.
Hardiness zone
9-11 USDA
Life cycleThe life cycle of the Bird of Paradise (Strelitzia reginae 'Kirstenbosch Gold') begins with germination, which may take several weeks to months as seeds have a hard coating. Following germination, it enters a juvenile growth phase where it develops long, paddle-shaped leaves and a slowly growing underground stem, or rhizome. This stage can last for several years before the plant reaches maturity. Once mature, the Bird of Paradise will produce its striking yellow and blue inflorescences which resemble exotic birds, primarily in late winter to early spring. After pollination, usually by birds, it will set seed, completing its reproductive cycle. The plant has a long lifespan, during which it can flower annually for many years while expanding through rhizomes to form larger clumps.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to summer
Strelitzia reginae 'Kirstenbosch Gold', commonly known as Bird of Paradise, is typically propagated by division. The best time to propagate this plant is in late winter or early spring, just before the growing season begins. To propagate by division, carefully remove the plant from its pot and gently separate the rhizomes, ensuring that each division has at least one shoot and a healthy root system. After separating, plant the divisions in a well-draining soil mix and water thoroughly. It's important to keep the new plants in a warm, bright location but out of direct sunlight until they become established.
