Bird of Paradise (Strelitzia reginae)
An old photo that I thought I would showcase today. It has other names, Crane Flower, Mzimvubu Flower and Queen's Bird of Paradise. It is native to South Africa. Its name comes from, as you might guess, its resemblance to the head and beak of a colorful and exotic bird.
I haven't seen one in several years. I found this one inside the conservatory of Brookside Gardens, in April 2013. Others I found while on vacation in various areas of the States.
It doesn't do very well in cooler climates. Summers may be okay depending on where they thrive, but in the winter-time it should be brought inside. You just have to check on your zone I guess. That's why we saw it in the conservatory. Also, people tend to put them in large pots in their gardens, so that they can be brought inside in the wintertime.
We haven't been to Brookside in a very long time as it's a little further away in Maryland. Only 47 minutes to an hour by car but as we have several botanical gardens within easy reach, we usually head to one of those. Still, it would be nice to go back, maybe this year. It has a lovely butterfly house in the summer. I am not sure if it still does as it's been a long time, and I need to check on that. The butterflies are always a big draw for me. You can click on this link which will take you to Brookside’s website. More information can be found here. Added note: The inside butterfly exhibit was closed in 2023 due to staff and supply shortages. Hopefully it will open again one day, but I have not been able to find any current information. There is an outside butterfly garden. It is always worth looking through their website for extra info, and that is what we will be doing before going again, whenever that may be.
