Strelitzia reginae is a flowering plant indigenous to South Africa. It’s common names include Strelitzia, Crane Flower or Bird of Paradise. The flowers stand above the foliage at the tips of long stalks. The hard, beak-like sheath from which the flower emerges gives it the appearance of a bird’s head and beak; this makes a durable perch for holding thirsty sunbirds which pollinate the flowers.

Bird of Paradise (Strelitzia)

A4 Artists sketch paper

Pencil crayon and B pencil

Bird of Paradise (Strelitzia) Close-up #1

Bird of Paradise (Strelitzia) Close-up #2

Bird of Paradise (Strelitzia) Close-up #3

Bird of Paradise (Strelitzia) Close-up #4

Bird of Paradise (Strelitzia) Close-up #5

Bird of Paradise (Strelitzia) Close-up #6

I love the brilliant oranges and yellows of the flowers petals offset against the contrasting blue tongues and broad green leaves. Nature certainly knows how to create drama through colour!