Strelitzia juncea, commonly known as Narrow-leaved Bird of Paradise, is an evergreen perennial herb native to the Cape Province of South Africa, where it thrives in the dry, open grasslands and rocky outcrops. It is a slow-growing plant that can reach up to 6.6 feet (2 meters) in height, with a spread of 2-3 feet (0.6-0.9 meters). Unlike its relative, Strelitzia reginae, this species does not have the typical broad banana-like leaves but instead has reed-like leafless stalks, which makes it highly distinctive. The flowers resemble a bird’s head and beak, with striking orange and blue colors, and are quite showy when they bloom from late fall to late spring.

Strelitzia juncea is valued for its unique foliage and showy flowers, which make it a popular choice for ornamental use in xeriscaping, rock gardens, and as a focal point in drought-tolerant landscapes. It is also used in containers and atriums where its vertical form can be appreciated. This species requires minimal maintenance and is known for its tolerance to drought and moderate frost, although it should be protected from severe frost. It is susceptible to root rot if overwatered and may be affected by mealybugs and scale insects. Propagation is typically through division of clumps or from seed, though seed-grown plants take several years to flower.CC BY-SA 4.0