Bird of Paradise Flowers
Occasions & recipients - Find flowers by occasion
Bird of Paradise brings a bold, exotic and optimistic mood, perfect for celebrating milestones and energising modern spaces. It suits friends, partners and confident professional gifting.
Joyful celebration
These tropical blooms symbolise excitement, success and the thrill of new adventures, making any room feel like a celebration.
Expression strength Bold and upbeat
Etiquette safety Safe for friends, colleagues and informal business congratulations.
Best setting Great as a striking focal piece in living rooms, reception areas or party spaces.
Colour hint Classic orange and blue with fresh greens emphasise energy and festive joy.
Avoid Not ideal for very solemn occasions or traditional mourning arrangements.
Exotic admiration
Bird of Paradise can say “you are unique and inspiring”, expressing admiration for someone’s bold style or achievements.
Expression strength Confident yet non-romantic unless paired with very passionate colours.
Etiquette safety Suitable for professional gifting when you want something distinctive but not intimate.
Best setting Ideal for modern offices, studios, lobbies and creative workspaces.
Colour hint Pair vivid orange blooms with crisp white or green accents for a sophisticated, design-led look.
Avoid Avoid for very traditional or minimalist recipients who prefer soft, understated flowers.
Tropical escape
Their dramatic silhouette evokes holidays, warmth and relaxation, offering a mental getaway in flower form.
Expression strength Relaxed and playful
Etiquette safety Best for informal, friendly gestures rather than very formal settings.
Best setting Perfect for holiday homes, sunny terraces, lounges and casual dining areas.
Colour hint Combine orange and blue with lime green or tropical foliage for a vacation feel.
Avoid Too playful for sombre hospital visits or formal condolence flowers.
Card Message Ideas
Presentation Etiquette
Ideal Delivery Time
At a glance
Quick reference for key details choosing flowers for different occasions and recipients. Use this section as a practical checklist: where they grow and what to keep in mind regarding toxicity and sensitivity.
Toxicity
Bird of Paradise is considered mildly toxic if ingested, so it is best kept out of reach of curious children and pets.
| Risk area | Level | Practical advice |
|---|---|---|
| Children | Mild risk if ingested | Discourage chewing or playing with leaves and flowers, and seek medical advice if larger quantities are swallowed. |
| Pets | Mild to moderate if ingested | Place arrangements and potted plants where cats and dogs cannot nibble them, and contact a vet if vomiting or drooling occurs. |
| Skin contact | Low | Most people tolerate normal handling well; wash hands if sap contacts sensitive skin or small cuts. |
If significant ingestion occurs or worrying symptoms develop, contact a doctor, poison centre or veterinarian promptly.
Allergenicity
Bird of Paradise flowers usually cause few allergy problems indoors, as they produce relatively modest, heavy pollen and have a noticeable but not overpowering scent.
| Factor | Level | Suggestion |
|---|---|---|
| Pollen | Low to moderate | Generally suitable for most hay fever sufferers, but keep a little distance from bedsides if someone is very sensitive. |
| Fragrance | Light / unobtrusive | Fine for most homes and offices; if anyone is scent-sensitive, avoid crowding many stems in a very small room. |
| Best placement | Living areas and bright offices | Display a few stems in open, well-ventilated spaces rather than tight bedrooms or clinical areas for maximum comfort. |
Color Taboos
Color meanings for Bird of Paradise can shift by culture and occasion; the table below highlights common sensitivities to keep in mind.
| Color/Combination | Region/Culture | Common Association | Occasions to Avoid |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pure white arrangements | Many East Asian and some European traditions | Often linked with mourning, funerals and memorial services. | Weddings, baby showers and cheerful birthday celebrations. |
| Very dark red with black accents | Various cultures | May feel heavy, aggressive or overly intense and dramatic. | Casual thank-you gifts, professional congratulations and light-hearted events. |
| Neon mixed colours with Bird of Paradise | General Western business gifting | Can appear loud or playful rather than refined or professional. | Formal corporate gifts, conservative offices and solemn ceremonies. |
| Orange and blue with stark black wrapping | Certain conservative cultures | Strong contrast may be read as harsh or inappropriately bold. | Traditional religious events, serious hospital visits and formal sympathy gestures. |
| Highly contrasting “rainbow” mixes | Global, mixed contexts | Seen as fun and party-like rather than respectful. | Somber memorials, official remembrance days and serious condolence calls. |
Growing & tools
Growing tips
Bird of Paradise is moderately easy to grow at home if given bright light, free-draining soil and protection from hard frost.
| Aspect | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Light | Provide bright light with several hours of direct sun; a sunny window, balcony or bright conservatory suits it best. |
| Water | Water thoroughly, then allow the top layer of soil to dry slightly; reduce watering in cooler, low-light months. |
| Soil | Use a free-draining, rich potting mix with added coarse material so excess water can drain easily. |
| Temperature | Keep in warm conditions, ideally 15–27°C, and protect from frost or cold drafts. |
| Care level | Care is moderate; it prefers consistent conditions and may take time before flowering indoors. |
| Feeding | Feed lightly with a balanced liquid fertiliser during the growing season every 4–6 weeks. |
For best flowering, combine high light with a snug but not cramped pot and avoid overwatering in winter.
Recommended tools
- Pruning shears - trims old flower stalks and damaged leaves cleanly, encouraging fresh growth and a tidier clump.
- Sturdy ceramic pot - provides stable support for the plant’s weighty foliage and prevents toppling in windy or busy areas.
- Well-draining potting mix - ensures roots have air and good drainage, reducing the risk of rot in Bird of Paradise.
- Watering can with narrow spout - allows controlled watering at the soil surface without soaking the crown or splashing leaves heavily.
- Liquid balanced fertiliser - provides steady nutrients during the growing season to support strong foliage and reliable flowering.
- Plant dolly or saucer on wheels - makes it easy to rotate or move heavy pots toward better light without straining.
- Soft cloth - gently wipes dust from leaves so they can photosynthesise efficiently and keep their glossy, tropical look.