Landscape Showroom / RLC Selection Guide
Orange Bird of Paradise for Tampa Landscapes
Strelitzia reginae
Also called: Bird of paradise; crane flower
Orange bird of paradise combines upright blue-green leaves with distinctive orange and blue flowers. It is an architectural accent that can suit a patio or entry even when it is not in bloom.
AI-generated illustration. Actual plants and materials vary; confirm the supplied selection with RLC.
At a glance
Climate & cold
Zones 10–11; protected sites or cold protection farther north
Mature scale
Roughly 3–5 feet tall and 2–4 feet wide; clumps expand with age
Sun & shade
Sun to partial shade
Water & drainage
Moist, well-drained soil; established plants tolerate some drought
Where it fits
Use as a focal clump with enough space for the leaves and flower stalks. It can sit in front of a green shrub backdrop or beside a pool area where the mature footprint fits. A clear surrounding edge makes the leaf form easier to read.
Sizes and varieties
Orange bird of paradise is far smaller than white bird of paradise, Strelitzia nicolai. The two should never be substituted solely because their common names sound similar. A mature clump may flower differently from newly divided stock.
Care through the seasons
Remove spent flower stalks and damaged leaves. Water through establishment, then adjust to growth and soil moisture. Protect from freezes and avoid burying the crown under mulch. Flowering can take time after division or installation.
Placement mistakes to avoid
Do not select a white bird of paradise for a space designed for the orange species. Avoid locations where the mature clump blocks access or drainage stays poor.
Buying size is not finished size
Commonly 3- and 7-gallon; compare clump maturity. These are nursery formats to ask about, not a live stock list or a guaranteed height. Compare the actual canopy, root ball, cultivar and overall condition. Leave room for the mature plant, even when a new installation initially looks open.
Planning the installation
Measure the usable bed, including space around windows, paths, utilities and irrigation. Show RLC both a wide view and the details of the existing ground. Discuss removals, preparation, access and watering before choosing a quantity. A larger plant may give more presence on day one, but the right location and establishment care still determine the result.
What affects cost?
Relative starting plant tier: $$. A tier compares material categories; it is not an installed price. Nursery size, fullness, quantity, delivery access, removals and irrigation changes can alter the quote. Compare the whole scope, including the selected variety and size.
Common question
Will it flower immediately after planting?
Not necessarily. Maturity, establishment, light and recent division affect flowering. Choose it for its foliage form as well as its eventual blooms.
Bring the right details together
RLC Lawn & Landscape is based in Lutz and serves Tampa Bay. Share photos of your yard, approximate measurements and the options you like. We’ll discuss what fits the site and the work involved.
Reference: Plant or product information. Planning guidance reviewed September 2026. Availability and installed prices are confirmed by quote.