Strelitzia is also known as the bird of paradise flower. That’s not entirely surprising, since in the hot regions where it grows the birds use the sepal as a perch, causing the flower to open. This flower performs well in eye-catching bouquets, but also likes to shine in a group of three or four in a vase in your home.
Caring for Strelitzia
With these tips you can enjoy your Strelitzia flowers for up to 2 weeks:
- Cut the end of the stems off diagonally.
- Place the Strelitzia in a clean vase with clean water.
- Cut flower food is not necessary.
- Provide the right room temperature (maximum 20°C) and don’t place the Strelitzia in a draught, in full sun, near a heater or next to the fruit bowl.
Colours and shape
The simple stem bearing a comb made up of elegant open orange sepals with two or three blue petals ensures that you’re unlikely to overlook this beauty. It’s a unique-looking flower: there’s nothing that resembles it!
Symbolism
The flower has various symbolic meanings. Strelitzia is seen as the flower of freedom, and also represents immortality. This special symbolism deserves a good story to go with it. So if you’re giving someone Strelitzia, include a card explaining why they deserve this flower.
Origin
Strelitzia originates from South Africa, and was transported to many countries in the 18th century. That’s also how it acquired its name: the wife of the English King George III, Charlotte of Meckelenburg-Strelitz, had a great love for flowers and plants, and so this remarkable flower was named after her.
