Flower of the Week

Bird of Paradise

Source: Sunipix.com

Common Name: Bird of Paradise or Crane Flower

Botanical Name: Strelitzia

Colours: Blue and Orange

Origin: South Africa

The Bird of Paradise flower is an unmistakable exotic flower with a large head which is said to resemble the beak and head plumage of a bird of paradise. It derives from a plant family known as Strelitziaceae, which was named after the birth place of Queen Charlotte of Mecklenburg-Strelitz. The Bird of paradise plant can reach a height of 5 feet or more and the distinctive head consists of three upright orange sepals and vibrant blue petals beneath. Therefore the flower is admired not only for its unusual structure but also for its height and vibrance. Nevertheless they are not as long lasting as their other exotic cousins and only last up to 2 weeks. They are in season in late Autumn and Winter. The Bird of paradise is  favoured by modern floral designers who often use them in modern arrangements and tropical bouquets.

Source: Examiner.com