Thursday, March 12, 2009

Flower of the Week - From South America


- BIRDS OF PARADISE –
Strelitzia reginae



Some maintain that the flower's brilliant orange and blue blossom resembles a bird in flight and that’s why is named after the bird of paradise. However, since this flower is also known as the strelitzia, some believe that it was named after England's Queen Charlotte, who was born Charlotte Mecklenber-Strelitz. We also can say that this flower is one the scientific name means queenly strelitzia and is said to have originated in South Africa and evolved in Madagascar, an island off the east coast of Africa.

Birds of paradise may have difficulty emerging from the green sheaths that surround the blossoms. To fix this situation, just cut a small slit in the top of each flower and gently open the sheath to release the bloom.

Care and Handling
- Unpack flowers from shipping box as soon as possible.
- Re-cut stems under water 1⁄2 to 3⁄4 inch.
- This species is chill sensitive. Place in storage at 55 to 70°F. They can be left at room temperature to allow for proper storage.
- Watch for emerging spathes and remove flowers manually from the spathes.
- Vase life: 7 to 14 days.
- Packing: 40 stems in a quarter box.
We recieve Fresh Bird of Paridise every Monday from Costa Rica.

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