Barbados in Bloom: Birds of Paradise

These unique blooms, known as Birds of Paradise, can be seen scattered across Barbados, either growing wild or meticulously cared for. Coming from the strelitzia genre, the Bird of Paradise is a perennial plant that was first found in South Africa where it is mostly referred to as a Crane Flower.

Easily recognized by their unique characteristics, Birds of Paradise flowers are most commonly comprised of 3-5 vividly orange petals and sometimes 2-3 deep blue petals. This flower can reach a height of 4-6 feet and its leaves are sturdy and resilient, similar to those of a banana tree.  Birds of Paradise can flourish by the Oceanside as its sturdy leaves can resist the potential harm of the salt breeze. Maybe that’s why they grow so wonderfully in Barbados, Just a thought.

Due to the fact that this exotic flower came from South Africa, Birds of Paradise thrive in hot and humid climates. Its ideal daily temperature is anywhere between 68°-72°, while it likes the nightly temperature to be anywhere from 50°-55°. One of the main ingredients to growing this beautifully unique flower is patience. It is very common to not see the first flower bloom for 3-5 years after the first seed was planted. But once it does bloom, the view is spectacular.

Birds of Paradise are the ideal flower for tropical arrangements as they can live for up to 2 weeks cut! Not to mention their beauty and versatility!