Strelitzia parvifolia – Small-leaved Bird of Paradise

Description

Strelitzia parvifolia – Small-leaved Bird of Paradise

Family: Strelitziaceae
Packet: 5 seeds

Description

Strelitzia parvifolia is a South African bird-of-paradise relative noted for its relatively narrow leaf blades and distinctive upright foliage. Its bird-shaped orange and blue flowers resemble those of Strelitzia reginae.

Key Features

• Flower Colour: Orange with Blue
• Plant habit: Clumping narrow-leaved perennial
• Garden interest and important notes: An interesting alternative for collectors who enjoy architectural plants. Young seedlings take time to develop mature foliage and flowers; appearance can vary with growing conditions.

Growing Conditions

• Position: Full sun to bright part shade after establishment.
• Soil: Freely drained, moderately fertile potting or garden soil.
• Water: Regular water during active growth; do not leave roots waterlogged.
• Climate: Warm temperate to subtropical conditions, sheltered from strong frost.

Seed Propagation

1. Prepare: Remove any orange aril and soak the hard seed in warm water for about 24 hours.
2. Sow: Sow around one seed-depth deep in free-draining seed-raising mix.
3. Germination conditions: Provide steady warmth around 23–26°C and consistent light moisture.
4. After germination: Pot on when root systems are established; seedling growth is slow.

Seed-grown Strelitzia may take years to reach flowering size.

Germination advice: These instructions are a recommended guide. Germination results and timing may vary depending on seed freshness, storage, temperature and growing conditions. Alternative propagation methods may also be successful.