Bird of Paradise flower - reginae

Seeds: 5  / Botanical name: Strelitzia reginae

The Queen Strelitzia in honor of Charlotte of Mecklenburg-Strelitz

There are only five species of Strelitzia, which belongs to the banana family. It was named Queen Strelitzia (reginae) in honor of Queen Charlotte of Mecklenburg-Strelitz in the 18th century. Its flowers, up to 20 centimeters long, emerge from a bract and, with their shape and red, orange, and yellow colors, resemble a colorful bird. The leaves, which resemble banana plants, are oval-shaped, bluish-green, and leathery. It takes about four to five years for the first flowering. However, once flowering, the bird of paradise flower blooms almost year-round in suitable conditions.

Natural habitat: The Strelitzia originates in South Africa, where all five species can be found. It is also widespread in the Canary Islands and is now a common sight in many tropical and subtropical gardens.