Birds of Paradise – 9 Surprising Things to Know About This Flower

Birds of Paradise – 9 Surprising Things to Know About This Flower

The beautiful and distinctive appearance of birds of paradise flowers is well known, but there is much more to learn about these blooms that soothe the eye. I remained curious to know more about flowers and their unique essence. The Birds of Paradise grabbed my attention the day I saw it in a nursery, that I usually visit for my love for plants. 

While chatting with the nursery owner, I was lucky to learn various interesting facts about this gorgeous flower which I wish to share with you all. 

9 surprising facts about birds of paradise flowers

The “birds of paradise” flower’s scientific name is Strelitzia Reginae. The wife of King George III of England, Queen Charlotte of Mecklenburg-Strelitz, inspired its title.

1. The blooms are called “birds of paradise” because they mimic the head of a vibrant bird. Its vivid orange and blue hues remain intended to draw pollinators like sunbirds.

2. Apart from being attractive, birds of paradise flowers are also useful. The blossoms can be used as a natural dye, while the long, pointed leaves can use to form a rope.

3. Since the blooms can last up to a week in a vase, floral arrangements frequently use them.

4. Bananas and birds of paradise flowers have a close bond. Both plants belong to the Musaceae family, which includes bananas.

5. Birds, not insects, pollinate the blooms. The primary pollinators of the birds of paradise flower are sunbirds and hummingbirds.

6. In many cultures, the flowers known as birds of paradise have symbolic meanings. It represents joy and happiness in South Africa. This flower is often given as a gift to mark a ninth wedding anniversary in the United States.

7. A lot of designers and artists get influenced by flowers. The flower’s distinctive form and vivid colors have been used to decorate everything from apparel to homes.

8. Films and television programs frequently include images of birds of paradise flowers. The flower has been seen in TV shows like “Lost” and “Desperate Housewives,” as well as in movies like “Jurassic Park” and “Ace Ventura: Pet Detective.”

9. Bird of paradise flower has 5 different species, and each one of them is native to Southern Africa. Cultivation of this flower is done in large numbers, all because of its unique and eye-catching look. The blooming period is September-May

Moreover, note that birds of paradise flowers are not only lovely but also have a rich history. It has useful applications. These flowers are very special and merit more investigation, both for their unusual origins and for their symbolic significance. 

I personally made an effort to grow this flower in my small garden and picked one plant from the NurseryLive store. It was fantastic in look but failed to survive after the first bloom. I am researching more on Bird of Paradise as I want it to grow healthy to enhance the beauty of the garden.  

Any of you had this plant with you? If yes, do share tips, as it will be helpful for me to offer the desired care to Bird of Paradise. 

This post is part of #BlogchatterA2Z