What Is the Normal Height of a Bird of Paradise Plant?
It is fitting that a plant with vibrant colors reminiscent of a tropical sun and an unusual shape that calls an exotic bird to mind is called a "bird of paradise." The plant provides a decorative splash in gardens and homes. Does this Spark an idea?
Other People Are Reading
-
Physical Description
-
A dramatic, clumping plant, bird of paradise---also called crane flowers---is a perennial evergreen. The plant produces thick, waxy, shiny banana-like leaves around 18 inches long and 6 inches wide. From the midst of the foliage---during September through May in USDA plant hardiness zones 9 to 11---blooms up to about 36 flowers called the "birds." It is these unusual blooms, usually in oranges, reds and blues, that give the plant its name.
Plant Height
-
The bird of paradise flower blooms in vivid colors. There are five species of bird of paradise, each with small variations in size and appearance. One species, the giant bird of paradise, typically reaches heights of 6 to 10 feet, but a height of 20 feet is possible. Other species usually range from 4 to 5 feet tall at maturity. Each plant has a base about 5 feet wide.
-
Origins
-
The bird of paradise, a close relative to the banana tree, is native to South Africa. It grows wild on the banks of rivers and coastal areas. The plant requires moist soil and lots of sun throughout the growing season. Potted plants should be moved indoors to protect them from temperatures of 50 degrees Fahrenheit or below. Bird of paradise plants cannot survive temperatures of 32 degrees Fahrenheit or below.
-
References
Resources
- Photo Credit Frank Krahmer/Digital Vision/Getty Images bird of paradise flower closeup image by David Grebow from Fotolia.com
