Birds of Paradise are also called the crane flower because they have a shape of a crane. All species are native to southern Africa.
The plant is a species of tropical evergreen and is related to the banana. A healthy, mature plant can produce up to 36 flowers spikes a year. Plants grown in partially shady spots will produce larger flowers than the ones planted in full sun.
The flower is pollinated by birds. When the bird sits on the spathe, the weight of the bird opens up the bract and releases pollen on the bird’s feet, which is then transferred to the next flower the bird visits.
To eliminate the risk of the wind catching a Bird of Paradise and snapping it, the plant evolved to produce tears in its leaves. These splits along the lateral seams allow wind to pass through with no issue.
In tropical or subtropical habitats, where the temperature is dry, bright, and free from frost, as a garden crop, paradise birds are better. It takes 3-5 years for a crop to grow from the seed and produce flowers. Plants produced from break can bloom in around 1-2 years. For those living in warmer climates, Birds of the Paradise is a common ornamental plant. It’s easy to grow and easy to keep. Most soil conditions can be endured and minimum irrigation is needed. It blooms during the whole year, generally in the late winter and early spring, under the ideal conditions.
