Parrot flower and Bird of Paradise can confuse you with their surprisingly similar appearance, but knowing one vs. another is vital if you want to add them to your tropical garden.
Both Parrot Flower(Heliconia) and Bird of Paradise(Strelitzia) can be excellent choices if you want to decorate your garden with a tropical touch.
So, go through this article to know the potential difference between two tropical flowers, Bird of Paradise and Parrot Flower.
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Parrot Flower And Bird Of Paradise [Similarties]
Both Parrot Flower and Bird of Paradise are tropical plants that thrive in USDA zone 9-11.
These low-maintenance plants are popular for their colorful blossoms and bear visually appealing flowers with a unique appearance.
- Both plants grow well in warm and humid conditions.
- You can see flowers of both plants appearing like parts of a bird at first glance.
- Both flowering plants can be perfect ornamental additions to your garden.
- Moreover, both need full sun and partial shade to grow and bloom well.
- The blooming period of both plants is long. You can enjoy the blossoms for months.
- Moreover, you can use both plants as cut flowers to decorate your living spaces and as gifts on occasion.
- Blossoms of both plants are capable of attracting external pollinators and wildlife. This makes your garden full of life.
- Both flowers are susceptible to pests like spider mites, battles, etc., and fungal pathogens.
- You can propagate both flowers by seed and division.
Use suitable pesticides, fungicides, or neem oil if you notice any pest or pathogenic invasion on your flowers.
Parrot Flower Vs. Bird Of Paradise [Differences]
Although both the Parrot flower and the Bird of Paradise are Angiosperms, both are from different families.
The Parrot flower belongs to the family Heliconiaceae, whereas Bird of Paradise is from the family Strelitziaceae.
| Features | Parrot Flower | Bird of Paradise |
|---|---|---|
| Native Region | Central America and South America | South Africa |
| Plant Size | 1-5 feet | 3-10 feet |
| Leaves | Simple leaves with reticulate venation | Large leaves resembling Banana |
| Flower Color | Red, Green, Yellow, Orange | Orange, Blue |
| Flower Shape | Like a Parrot's body | Like a flying bird |
| Bloom Time | For a whole year | Summer to fall |
| Habit | Grows in clusters | Grows upright |
| Flowering Requirement | Blooms easily indoors | Needs open and sunny location to bloom properly |
| Nature | Herbaceous annual | Woody perennial |
From Editorial Team
Parrot Flower Vs. Bird of Paradise: Which One Is Best?
Choosing between Parrot Flower and Bird of Paradise depends upon your personal preference and your landscaping choices.
However, if you have less garden space or no space at all, the Parrot flower is beat as it occupies very little space. You can even grow it in containers.
In contrast, Bird of Paradise can be suitable for those who own a large and open garden area.
