Native to South Africa, Strelitzia reginae is a species of ornamental plant in the Strelitziaceae family. It is the best known of the birds of paradise because it is easily found at florists.
Its name comes from the curious shape of its flowers which resembles a bird’s head. It is very common in public beds in regions with a mild climate or in tropical and subtropical gardens. This plant native to Africa prefers soil rich in organic matter, so it is advisable to provide it with compost.
Except in the south and on the coasts of Brittany, the bird of paradise must be grown in a container and it must winter in a veranda where the temperature will not drop below 10°C. During this period, it is best to continue watering, ensuring that the soil does not dry out completely. Outdoors, below −2°C, the leaves are damaged and eventually disappear. It is possible that the stump will start again when spring returns.
Propagation by division of suckers is the most suitable even if sowing is not to be excluded.
Un peu de verdure 