I'm not sure if this is a tree or a bush. The Giant Bird of Paradise (Strelitzia Alba) can grow at least twenty feet tall and send out suckers to add to it's bulk at ground level. It is a popular planting in SCalifornia malls and courtyards - maybe because the leaves resemble banana leaves and it is very exotic in appearance.
This specimen grows in the courtyard where Liz and I meet at Starbuck's and Corner Bakery Cafe. That is a turquoise slat bench in the background behind the flower.
As you can see, it has the blue "tongue" of the more common Bird of Paradise (I think that one is Strelitzia Reginae), but white "wings" instead of orange. And, of course, the flowers are much larger, some as much as 12" from stem to the end of the "jaw" under the blue "tongue". No fragrance, but the flowers do drip a clear sap.
No comments:
Post a Comment