Strelitzia

Strelitzia are large exotic-looking plants with flamboyant orange and blue flowers on tall stems. The blooms resemble the head of an exotic bird, hence the common name, bird of paradise. Even when not in flower these are striking plants, producing clumps of large paddle-shaped evergreen leaves that can grow to well over 1.5m (5ft) tall.

Strelitzias thrive on warmth and humidity. They also prefer good ventilation in hot weather, so enjoy being moved outside from May to late September. They grow best in a loam-based, peat-free compost with added grit for drainage.

These tender plants won't survive a British winter outdoors so should be moved inside before temperatures drop below 12°C. The leaves can be shredded by strong winds so position plants in a sheltered spot if they are moved outside for the summer.

Strelitzia flowers are pollinated by birds in their native South Africa. The pointed beak-like ‘spathe’, from which the petals emerge, makes an inviting perch for sunbirds, so they can feast on the abundant nectar.