15 Bird of Paradise Plants for a Bold Indoor Jungle

While some houseplants quietly blend into the background, Bird of Paradise plants command attention with their dramatic tropical flair. You’ll discover these architectural beauties come in surprising varieties beyond the classic orange-and-blue blooms. From the towering 20-foot Giant White to the compact 3-foot Madagascar Ice, each species brings unique characteristics to your indoor jungle. Let’s explore which of these stunning specimens will transform your space into an exotic paradise.

1. Giant White Bird Paradise

The Giant White Bird of Paradise (Strelitzia nicolai) is a dramatic tropical plant that can grow up to 20-30 feet tall in its natural habitat. Unlike its cousin Strelitzia reginae, this variety produces striking white and blue flowers rather than orange ones. The plant features large, banana-like leaves that can span up to 8 feet long, growing in a fan pattern from a central stem. Its distinctive bird-shaped flowers emerge from dark purple-brown bracts, making it a stunning architectural element in tropical and subtropical gardens.

• Light: Bright, indirect sunlight; can tolerate full sun in cooler climates
• Water: Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; reduce watering in winter
• Soil: Well-draining, rich, organic potting mix with pH 6.0-7.0
• Temperature: 65-80°F (18-27°C); cannot tolerate frost
• Humidity: High humidity (50% or higher)
• Fertilizer: Feed monthly during growing season with balanced fertilizer
• Space: Needs substantial room for growth; plant 6-8 feet apart outdoors
• Zone: USDA zones 9b-11

2. Reginae Bird of Paradise

The Reginae Bird of Paradise (Strelitzia reginae) is a striking tropical plant known for its distinctive orange and blue crane-like flowers that resemble an exotic bird in flight. This evergreen perennial typically grows 4-6 feet tall and produces large, paddle-shaped leaves that emerge from a fan-like pattern at the base. Native to South Africa, it’s commonly grown as a houseplant in temperate regions and has become a popular choice for both indoor and outdoor tropical landscaping. The plant blooms throughout the year when conditions are favorable, with each flower lasting several weeks.

• Light: Bright, indirect sunlight; can tolerate full sun in cooler climates
• Water: Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; reduce watering in winter
• Soil: Well-draining, rich potting mix with organic matter
• Temperature: 65-80°F (18-27°C)
• Humidity: High humidity levels (50% or higher)
• Fertilizer: Feed monthly during growing season with balanced fertilizer
• pH: 5.5-7.5
• Space: Allow 6 feet between plants when growing outdoors
• Container: Large pot with adequate drainage holes
• Soil Depth: Plant at same depth as original container

3. Mexican Bird of Paradise

The Mexican Bird of Paradise (Caesalpinia mexicana) is a stunning ornamental shrub or small tree native to Mexico and Central America, typically growing 10-15 feet tall. This drought-tolerant plant features bright yellow flowers that bloom throughout warm months, creating spectacular displays against its delicate, fern-like foliage. Unlike its name suggests, it’s not related to the tropical Bird of Paradise but belongs to the pea family. The plant produces brown seed pods after flowering and maintains a bushy, rounded form that makes it popular for hedges and specimen plantings in warm climates.

• Light: Full sun to partial shade; best flowering occurs in full sun
• Water: Low to moderate water needs; drought-tolerant once established
• Soil: Well-draining soil; tolerates various soil types including sandy or rocky
• Temperature: Hardy in USDA zones 9-11; can tolerate brief periods of frost
• Fertilizer: Light feeding in spring with balanced fertilizer
• pH: Adaptable to both acidic and alkaline soils (6.0-8.0)
• Spacing: Plant 4-6 feet apart to allow for mature spread
• Drainage: Requires excellent drainage; cannot tolerate wet feet

4. Orange Bird of Paradise

The Orange Bird of Paradise (Strelitzia reginae) is a striking tropical plant known for its distinctive orange and blue crane-like flowers that resemble an exotic bird in flight. Native to South Africa, this evergreen perennial grows in a clumping pattern, reaching heights of 4-6 feet with large paddle-shaped leaves. The dramatic blooms appear throughout the year in ideal conditions, making it a popular choice for both indoor and outdoor ornamental gardens in warm climates.

• Light: Bright, direct sunlight for ideal flowering; can tolerate partial shade but may reduce blooming
• Water: Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; reduce watering in winter
• Soil: Well-draining, rich, organic soil with pH 6.0-7.5
• Temperature: 65-80°F (18-27°C); not frost tolerant
• Humidity: High humidity levels; regular misting beneficial
• Fertilizer: Monthly feeding during growing season with balanced fertilizer
• Spacing: 4-6 feet between plants when grown outdoors
• Zone: USDA zones 10-12

5. White-stemmed Bird of Paradise

The White-stemmed Bird of Paradise (Strelitzia nicolai) is a dramatic tropical plant that can reach heights of 20-30 feet tall in its natural habitat. Also known as the Giant Bird of Paradise or Wild Banana, it features large paddle-shaped leaves arranged in a fan pattern and produces striking white and blue-purple flowers that resemble a bird’s head. Unlike its smaller cousin Strelitzia reginae, this variety develops multiple stems that are whitish-gray in color, hence its common name.

• Light: Bright, indirect sunlight; can tolerate some direct morning sun but protect from intense afternoon sun
• Water: Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; reduce watering in winter
• Soil: Well-draining, rich organic potting mix with pH 6.0-7.0
• Humidity: High humidity levels (50% or higher)
• Temperature: 65-80°F (18-27°C); cannot tolerate temperatures below 50°F
• Fertilizer: Feed monthly during growing season with balanced fertilizer
• Space: Needs significant room to grow; minimum 6 feet spacing between plants
• Drainage: Excellent drainage essential to prevent root rot

6. Red Bird of Paradise

The Red Bird of Paradise (Caesalpinia pulcherrima) is a striking tropical shrub known for its vibrant red-orange flowers with long, showy stamens that bloom throughout summer and fall. This fast-growing plant can reach heights of 10-15 feet tall and features delicate, fern-like foliage with multiple leaflets. Despite its name, it’s not related to the Strelitzia bird of paradise family but belongs to the pea family, Fabaceae. Often used as an ornamental plant in warm climates, it attracts butterflies and hummingbirds while providing dramatic color to gardens and landscapes.

• Light: Full sun; minimum 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily
• Water: Moderate watering; allow soil to dry slightly between waterings
• Soil: Well-draining, fertile soil with pH 6.0-7.5
• Temperature: Thrives in warm climates; hardy in USDA zones 9-11
• Humidity: Tolerates both dry and humid conditions
• Fertilizer: Monthly feeding during growing season with balanced fertilizer
• Spacing: Plant 4-6 feet apart to allow for mature spread
• Drainage: Requires excellent drainage; cannot tolerate wet feet

7. Blue Bird of Paradise

The Blue Bird of Paradise (Strelitzia reginae) is an exotic flowering plant known for its distinctive bird-like blooms featuring blue and orange colors. Despite its name, the “blue” appears more purple-violet, complemented by orange and white crane-like flowers that emerge from dark blue-green bracts. This striking plant typically grows 4-6 feet tall and produces large, banana-like leaves that can spread 3-4 feet wide. The flowers bloom throughout the year in ideal conditions, making it a popular choice for tropical gardens and indoor spaces.

• Light: Bright, indirect sunlight; can tolerate full sun in temperate climates
• Water: Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; reduce watering in winter
• Soil: Well-draining, rich potting mix with pH 6.0-7.5
• Temperature: 65-80°F (18-27°C)
• Humidity: High humidity (50% or higher)
• Fertilizer: Monthly feeding during growing season with balanced fertilizer
• Soil Depth: Deep containers for extensive root system
• Drainage: Excellent drainage required to prevent root rot

8. Small Bird of Paradise

The Small Bird of Paradise (Strelitzia reginae) is a compact version of the Bird of Paradise family, typically growing between 4-6 feet tall and 3-4 feet wide. This striking tropical plant features large, paddle-shaped leaves and produces distinctive orange and blue crane-like flowers that resemble exotic birds in flight. Popular as both an indoor houseplant and outdoor ornamental in warmer climates, this variety is more manageable for home gardens and containers compared to its larger relatives.

• Light: Bright, indirect sunlight; can tolerate full sun in mild climates; minimum 6 hours daily
• Water: Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; reduce watering in winter
• Soil: Well-draining, rich, organic potting mix with pH 6.0-7.5
• Temperature: 65-80°F (18-27°C); not frost tolerant
• Humidity: High humidity (50% or higher)
• Fertilizer: Feed monthly during growing season with balanced fertilizer
• Zone: USDA zones 10-12
• Container: Large pot with drainage holes; repot every 2-3 years

9. Jungle Bird of Paradise

The Jungle Bird of Paradise (Strelitzia nicolai), also known as the Giant White Bird of Paradise or Wild Banana, is a dramatic tropical plant that can grow up to 20-30 feet tall in its natural habitat. Native to South Africa, this species features large paddle-shaped leaves arranged in a fan pattern and produces striking white and blue flowers that resemble the head of an exotic bird. Unlike its smaller cousin Strelitzia reginae, the Jungle Bird of Paradise develops a thick, woody trunk as it matures and can form impressive clumps through its spreading growth habit.

• Light: Bright, indirect light; can tolerate full sun in cooler climates but prefers partial shade in hot regions
• Water: Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; reduce watering in winter
• Soil: Well-draining, rich, organic potting mix with pH 6.0-7.0
• Humidity: High humidity levels (50% or higher)
• Temperature: 65-80°F (18-27°C); cannot tolerate freezing temperatures
• Fertilizer: Feed monthly during growing season with balanced fertilizer
• Space: Needs ample room for growth; minimum 6 feet spacing between plants
• Drainage: Excellent drainage required to prevent root rot
• Growth Medium: Can be grown in ground or large containers with drainage holes

10. Fan-shaped Traveler’s Palm

The Fan-shaped Traveler’s Palm (Ravenala madagascariensis) is not a true palm but rather a close relative of the bird of paradise plant. This dramatic specimen features enormous paddle-shaped leaves arranged in a distinctive fan pattern that can span up to 30 feet wide at maturity. The leaves grow from a central trunk in an east-west orientation, giving rise to its nickname “Compass Palm.” Native to Madagascar, this plant produces white flowers nestled in boat-shaped bracts and bears edible seeds with bright blue arils.

• Light: Full sun to partial shade; prefers 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily
• Water: Regular watering to maintain consistently moist soil; reduce watering in winter
• Soil: Well-draining, rich, organic soil with pH 6.0-7.0
• Temperature: 65-85°F (18-29°C); not frost tolerant
• Humidity: High humidity levels preferred
• Fertilizer: Monthly feeding during growing season with balanced fertilizer
• Space: Needs significant room to grow; plant at least 10 feet from structures
• Growth Zone: USDA zones 10-11

11. Madagascar Ice Bird Paradise

The Madagascar Ice Bird of Paradise (Strelitzia nicolai x reginae ‘Variegata’) is a rare, variegated hybrid variety of Bird of Paradise plant that features striking white and green striped foliage. This stunning cultivar combines characteristics from both parent plants, reaching heights of 4-6 feet indoors and producing the classic bird-like flowers, though flowering is less common than in non-variegated varieties. The distinctive cream-colored variegation on its leaves makes it highly sought after by collectors and adds a dramatic tropical accent to indoor spaces.

• Light: Bright, indirect sunlight; can tolerate some direct morning sun but protect from harsh afternoon rays
• Water: Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; water when top 1-2 inches of soil feels dry
• Soil: Well-draining, rich potting mix with organic matter
• Humidity: High humidity levels (50-60%)
• Temperature: 65-80°F (18-27°C)
• Fertilizer: Monthly feeding during growing season with balanced fertilizer
• Container: Large pot with sufficient drainage holes
• pH: 5.5-7.5

12. Purple-crowned Bird Paradise

The Purple-crowned Bird of Paradise (Strelitzia reginae ‘Purpurea’) is a striking variant of the classic Bird of Paradise plant, featuring deep purple and blue flowers instead of the typical orange and blue blooms. This rare cultivar maintains the same distinctive bird-like flower shape as the standard variety but offers a more dramatic, royal appearance. The plant grows to similar heights as the common Bird of Paradise, reaching 4-6 feet tall, with large paddle-shaped leaves that create an attractive tropical display even when not in bloom.

• Light: Bright indirect sunlight; can tolerate full sun in cooler climates
• Water: Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; reduce watering in winter
• Soil: Well-draining, rich potting mix with high organic content
• Temperature: 65-80°F (18-27°C)
• Humidity: High humidity levels (50% or higher)
• Fertilizer: Feed monthly during growing season with balanced fertilizer
• pH: 5.5-7.5
• Spacing: 4-6 feet apart when planting multiple specimens

13. Emerald Giant Bird Paradise

The Emerald Giant Bird of Paradise is a spectacular tropical plant variety known for its massive size, reaching heights of up to 20 feet tall when grown in ideal conditions. Its large, paddle-shaped leaves can grow up to 8 feet long and 3 feet wide, creating a dramatic focal point in any landscape. Distinguished by its deep emerald green foliage and impressive stature, this variety is more commonly grown for its magnificent foliage rather than its flowers, though it can produce striking white and blue blooms when mature.

• Light: Bright, indirect sunlight; can tolerate full sun in cooler climates
• Water: Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; water deeply when top 2-3 inches of soil feels dry
• Soil: Well-draining, rich organic soil with pH 6.0-7.5
• Temperature: 65-80°F (18-27°C)
• Humidity: High humidity levels of 60% or more
• Fertilizer: Monthly feeding during growing season with balanced fertilizer
• Space: Needs significant room to spread; plant 6-8 feet apart
• Zone: USDA zones 9-11

14. Desert Peach Bird Paradise

The Desert Peach Bird of Paradise (Caesalpinia pulcherrima), also known as Pride of Barbados or Peacock Flower, is a striking tropical shrub that produces vibrant orange-peach blooms with long, showy stamens. Unlike traditional Birds of Paradise, this variety is drought-tolerant and thrives in arid conditions, making it an excellent choice for desert landscapes. The plant features delicate, fern-like foliage and can grow up to 10 feet tall, creating a dramatic display when its clusters of peachy flowers bloom from late spring through fall.

• Light: Full sun exposure, minimum 6-8 hours daily
• Water: Low to moderate; drought-tolerant once established; water deeply but infrequently
• Soil: Well-draining, sandy or rocky soil; tolerates poor soil conditions
• Temperature: Hardy in zones 8-11; prefers warm climates with temperatures above 60°F
• Fertilizer: Light feeding with balanced fertilizer in spring; avoid over-fertilizing
• Humidity: Tolerates low humidity levels
• pH: Adaptable to various pH levels, but prefers slightly alkaline soil (6.8-7.5)
• Spacing: Plant 4-6 feet apart to allow for mature spread

15. Yellow-throated Bird of Paradise

The Yellow-throated Bird of Paradise (Heliconia psittacorum) is a tropical flowering plant known for its vibrant, beak-like blooms with distinctive yellow throat markings. Growing to heights between 3-6 feet tall, this plant produces clusters of brightly colored bracts that house small flowers, typically in shades of orange, red, or yellow. Its upright growth habit and lance-shaped leaves make it an attractive ornamental choice for tropical gardens and warm climate landscapes.

• Light: Bright, filtered sunlight; can tolerate partial shade but flowers best with 6-8 hours of daily sunlight
• Water: Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; water deeply when top inch of soil feels dry
• Soil: Rich, well-draining organic soil with pH 6.0-6.5
• Temperature: Thrives in warm temperatures between 70-85°F (21-29°C)
• Humidity: Requires high humidity levels of 60% or higher
• Fertilizer: Monthly feeding during growing season with balanced fertilizer
• Growing Zone: USDA zones 10-12