History of the Bird of Paradise

Geography

• Bird-of-paradise plants were first discovered by European naturalists in the subtropical region of South Africa in the late 1700s. The vivid flowers, which stand out in other environments, were a botanical adaptation to the colorful tropical landscape of southern Africa.

Identification

• Ruling King George III received a bird-of-paradise plant as a gift in 1773. Naturalists gave the plant its scientific name—"strelitzia regina"—in honor of King George's wife, the Queen of England, Charlotte of Mecklenburg-Streliz. Charlotte married George in 1761.

Significance

• Bird-of-paradise flowers get their common name from their appearance. The oversized, bright orange flowers with blue tongues resemble tropical birds.

Effects

• Because bird-of-paradise flowers are perennial, meaning they bloom each year, they have been successful additions to gardens in Europe and the U.S. since they were introduced in the 18th century. Bird-of-paradise flowers are adaptable to most types of soil and need minimal maintenance, encouraging their popularity.

Considerations

• Today, bird-of-paradise blooms are so popular in southern California that the plant is considered the official flower of Los Angeles.