How to Overwinter Bird of Paradise Plants | Gardener's Path

When I first moved to southern California from Montana to attend university, I was amazed by the diverse array of stunning plants: the pink sprays of bougainvillea, the purple flush of jacaranda trees, the orange-tufted, sharp-beaked birds of paradise.

It’s uncanny how much this flower resembles a tropical bird, isn’t it? Also known as crane flower, bird of paradise (Strelitzia spp.) belongs to the Strelitziaceae family, of which Madagascar’s theatrical traveler’s palm (Ravenala madagascariensis) is also a part.

This family loves drama, and it’s fantastic if you’re looking for stunning ornamentals to add to the garden.

We link to vendors to help you find relevant products. If you buy from one of our links, we may earn a commission.

Bird of paradise is an evergreen tropical plant native to South Africa, but it’s grown in warm locales around the world. There are five species in this genus, and all may be referred to by the same common name.

All members thrive in USDA Hardiness Zones 10-12, and sometimes Zone 9 – with ample protection.

If you’re lucky enough to be growing one of these beauties in your yard or garden, you might be wondering how to best care for it during the winter.

We’ve got you covered. Here’s what I will cover in this guide:

These plants can suffer if temperatures dip below freezing in the winter. Read on to find out how to overwinter your bird of paradise if you live in Zone 9, or are daring to grow the gorgeous birdlike blooms in Zone 8.

And if you’re looking for basic tips to get started, you can begin with our growing guide.

The very lowest temperature that Strelitzia plants can handle is 24°F for just a short