Dwarf bird of paradise (Strelitzia reginae "Dwarf") | seeds, 10 pcs.

RARE

• Latin name: Strelitzia reginae 'Dwarf'
• Danish names: Dværg paradisfugleblomst
• English names: Dwarf bird of paradise

Strelitzia reginae 'Dwarf' is a rare and particularly attractive form of the classic bird of paradise flower. Where the common Strelitzia reginae can become an impressive and space-consuming plant, this dwarf form is significantly more compact and suitable for cultivation in pots, conservatories, and smaller greenhouses.

The plant develops the same iconic flowers that have made the bird of paradise flower world-famous. The bright orange sepals and blue petals together form the characteristic flower shape, which resembles an exotic bird's head in flight.

The compact growth makes Strelitzia reginae 'Dwarf' particularly interesting for collectors and plant enthusiasts who want the bird of paradise flower's spectacular blooms without having to set aside space for a large plant.

Compared to Strelitzia nicolai, which can develop into a small tree, and the rare Strelitzia parvifolia, which has a more slender and botanical expression, this dwarf form combines the classic bird of paradise flower's appearance with a more manageable size.

Cultivation and requirements

Strelitzia reginae 'Dwarf' thrives best in full sun to light partial shade and prefers:

• Well-drained and nutrient-rich soil (we recommend our Calathea & Maranta soil)
• Consistent watering during the growing season
• Good air circulation
• Warm and bright conditions

A well-drained Mediterranean or tropical plant soil is ideal for cultivation. For optimal growth, it is advantageous to use an organic fertilizer throughout the growing season.

The species tolerates brief light frost, but in Denmark, it is best grown as a potted plant, greenhouse plant, or conservatory plant. In winter, it should be kept in a bright, frost-free location.

Even though the plant is smaller than the common form, it still benefits from plenty of light to develop optimally and later be able to bloom.

Cultivation from seed

Seeds of Strelitzia reginae germinate best under warm conditions. For best results, we recommend:

• First, remove the orange "tuft"
• Soak in lukewarm water for 24–48 hours
• Sow in a well-drained soil mix
• Maintain a temperature of 22–28 °C
• Keep the soil evenly moist, but not wet

Germination typically occurs within 4–12 weeks, though individual seeds may take longer. The young plants grow moderately and gradually develop their characteristic leaves.

As with other bird of paradise flowers, it requires patience to grow the plant to a flowering-capable size, but the reward is some of the plant kingdom's most spectacular blooms.

Utility and collector value

Strelitzia reginae 'Dwarf' is primarily grown as an ornamental and collector's plant. Its compact size makes it particularly attractive for plant enthusiasts with limited space.

For collectors of bird of paradise flowers, it represents an exciting and relatively rare variant of one of the world's most iconic flowering plants.

The combination of the reduced size and the classic bird of paradise flowers makes it one of the most interesting forms of Strelitzia reginae. If you are interested in Strelitzia plants in general, you can find our entire collection of Strelitzia seeds.

Strelitzia reginae 'Dwarf' is an obvious choice for the plant enthusiast who wants to grow a compact and exclusive bird of paradise flower entirely from seed – a rare plant with spectacular flowers and high collector value.

In 2023, we managed for the first time to get flowers on our plant.

• See, for example, our article on care of Strelitzia