3 Flowers That Look Like A Bird Of Paradise

The iconic Bird of Paradise, or Strelitzia, is a true showstopper. But did you know there are other tropical flowers that share its dramatic, bird-like beauty? This guide introduces you to the best lookalikes, especially the vibrant Heliconia, often called the 'false bird of paradise'. 

We will explore how to tell them apart, discover other stunning alternatives, and learn exactly how to help them flourish in your Singapore home or garden.

1. Heliconia (False Bird of Paradise)

When looking for a flower that captures the same exotic spirit as the Bird of Paradise, the Heliconia is undoubtedly the top contender. Its vibrant colours and unusual shape make it a popular alternative in tropical gardens and floral arrangements across Singapore. It is so similar that it has earned the nickname 'false bird of paradise'.

What Exactly is a Heliconia Plant?

Heliconia is a genus of flowering plants native to the tropical Americas. They are known for their spectacular flower structures and large, lush leaves that often resemble those of a banana plant. What we often think of as the 'flower' is actually a series of colourful, boat-shaped leaves called bracts. 

These brightly coloured bracts, which can be red, orange, yellow, or pink, grow in a cluster along a central stem. The true flowers are small and simple, tucked away safely inside these protective bracts. Their main job is to attract pollinators, like hummingbirds in their native habitat.

Why Heliconia is Often Mistaken for Bird of Paradise

The confusion between Heliconia and Bird of Paradise is very common, and it is easy to see why. Both plants possess a bold and exotic appearance that feels distinctly tropical. They share a similar colour palette of fiery oranges, brilliant yellows, and deep reds. 

Their flower structures are complex and have a bird-like quality that sets them apart from more common flowers like roses or lilies. The lush, paddle-shaped foliage of both plants also contributes to their similar overall look, making them staples in tropical landscaping. The popular name 'false bird of paradise' solidifies this connection, leading many to believe they are closely related species.

Popular Heliconia Varieties to Grow in Singapore

Our warm and humid climate is perfect for growing many types of Heliconia. You can easily find these varieties in local nurseries. Caring for flowers is essential to keeping them fresh and lasting long.

Heliconia rostrata (Hanging Lobster Claw): This is one of the most dramatic and recognisable varieties. It features large, waxy bracts in shades of red and yellow that hang downwards in a long, pendulous chain, resembling a stack of lobster claws. 

It is a real statement piece in any garden, and its love for humidity makes it exceptionally well-suited to Singapore's weather. It needs a bit of space to show off its magnificent hanging blooms.

Heliconia psittacorum (Parrot's Flower): For those with less space, perhaps on a condo balcony, the Parrot's Flower is an excellent choice. This variety is more compact and features smaller, delicate, upright bracts. 

The bracts are often a blend of orange and red with green or yellow tips, looking very much like the colourful plumage of a parrot. It is a prolific bloomer, providing a near-constant display of colour throughout the year. 

If you want to use this as part of a bouquet, here’s a guide we wrote on how to create your own bouquet. 

Bird of Paradise vs. Heliconia: Telling Them Apart

While they look similar at first glance, a closer look reveals several clear differences that can help you distinguish between a true Bird of Paradise (Strelitzia) and a Heliconia. Understanding these distinctions will help you appreciate the unique beauty of each plant.

Key Differences in the Flowers and Bracts

The easiest way to tell them apart is by examining their flower structures. A true Bird of Paradise (Strelitzia reginae) has a very specific and unique bloom. The flower emerges from a hard, green, beak-like sheath that grows horizontally. 

This sheath is called a spathe. From this spathe, the flower rises, consisting of three bright orange sepals and three brilliant blue petals. Two of the blue petals are joined together to form a nectary that looks like an arrow. The entire structure strongly resembles the head of an exotic crane.

Heliconia flowers, on the other hand, are quite different. Their colourful parts are the bracts themselves, which are arranged alternately along the flower stem. These bracts can either point upwards (Heliconia psittacorum) or hang downwards (Heliconia rostrata). 

They form a chain of boat-shaped cups, and the small, insignificant true flowers are hidden inside them. The overall shape is more like a lobster's claw or a colourful, zigzagging chain rather than a single bird's head.

A Look at Their Leaves and Growth Habits

The foliage also provides clues. The leaves of a Strelitzia are thick, paddle-shaped, and have a distinct grey-green hue. They grow directly from the soil in a dense, symmetrical, fan-like clump, creating a very tidy and architectural appearance. The leaf stalks are typically very long.

Heliconia leaves are generally a brighter shade of green and feel softer to the touch. They look very similar to the leaves of a banana or a canna lily. 

Their growth habit tends to be less structured than the Strelitzia's tight fan. They grow from underground stems called rhizomes and can spread to form a larger, more sprawling colony of leafy stalks.

Origins and Family: Are They Related?

Despite their visual similarities, these two plants are not closely related. This is a key botanical distinction. The Bird of Paradise (Strelitzia) belongs to the Strelitziaceae family, which is closely related to the banana family (Musaceae).

The Heliconia, however, is in a family all its own, the Heliconiaceae. Its closest relatives are plants like cannas and gingers. Knowing this helps to understand why their growth habits and flower structures are fundamentally different, even if they have evolved to have a similar tropical look.

Other Beautiful Flowers with a Bird of Paradise Vibe

Beyond the Heliconia, other plants can bring that same exotic, vibrant energy to your home or garden without being a direct lookalike. These flowers share a similar feeling of wild, tropical beauty.

2. The Peacock Flower (Caesalpinia pulcherrima)

Also known as the Dwarf Poinciana, the Peacock Flower is a stunning shrub that thrives in the sunny Singaporean climate. While its flower structure is more open and delicate than a Bird of Paradise, it delivers a similar visual impact with its breathtaking colours. 

The flowers are bowl-shaped with ruffled petals in brilliant shades of orange, red, and yellow. What truly gives it an exotic flair are its long, elegant red stamens that extend far beyond the petals. It is a hardy, sun-loving plant that produces a profusion of these flamboyant blooms, making it a wonderful and low-maintenance alternative.

3. The Striking Canna Lily (Canna indica)

The Canna Lily is another excellent choice for achieving a tropical look. The similarity here lies more in the foliage than the flower. Canna Lilies produce very large, paddle-shaped leaves that look remarkably similar to those of a Bird of Paradise. These leaves can be deep green, bronze, or even variegated. This lush foliage creates a perfect tropical backdrop. 

The flowers, which grow on tall stalks above the leaves, are also large and brightly coloured in shades of red, orange, or yellow. While the flower shape is different, the combination of bold leaves and vibrant blooms provides that much-desired exotic resort feel.

Styling These Flowers in Your Home and Garden

The architectural shapes and bold colours of these flowers make them incredibly versatile for decorating your living space, both indoors and out. You’re welcome to read our guide on how to arrange flowers in vase.

Creating Stunning Floral Arrangements

The long, strong stems and dramatic shapes of Heliconia and Bird of Paradise flowers make them a favourite among florists. You can easily create your own professional-looking arrangements at home. Use a single, large Heliconia bloom, like the Hanging Lobster Claw, in a tall, simple vase to create a dramatic and minimalist centrepiece. 

For a fuller bouquet, pair them with other large tropical leaves like monstera or palm fronds. Their unique forms add height, structure, and a splash of exotic colour that immediately elevates any arrangement.

Using Them as Statement Indoor Plants

A large potted Bird of Paradise (Strelitzia nicolai) or a tall Heliconia can serve as a living sculpture in your home. Place one in a corner of your living room, next to a sofa, or in a bright entryway to create an instant focal point. The key is to choose a pot that complements your interior design. 

A simple ceramic pot in a neutral colour like white, black, or terracotta allows the plant's natural beauty to stand out. These plants bring a touch of nature indoors and can make a room feel more alive and stylish.

Landscaping Your Garden with Bird of Paradise Lookalikes

In a garden setting, these plants can be used to create a lush, resort-like atmosphere. Plant a cluster of Heliconias to form a dense, leafy screen that provides privacy and a beautiful green backdrop. Their height makes them perfect for planting along a fence or a wall. 

They also look fantastic planted near water features or swimming pools, where their tropical look feels right at home. Mix them with other tropical plants with different textures, like ferns and gingers, to create a rich, layered garden design.

Conclusion On Flowers That Look Like A Bird of Paradise

The Bird of Paradise is truly unique, but its beauty is echoed in other magnificent tropical plants. The Heliconia stands out as its closest lookalike, offering a similar dramatic flair with its own distinct charm. By understanding their differences and care needs, you can confidently choose one of these stunning alternatives. 

Whether used as a statement indoor plant or a garden centrepiece, these flowers bring a touch of the exotic to any Singapore home. They prove that you can capture that iconic tropical look with a variety of beautiful blooms.

Singapore Florist elevates your flower game to another level. We love flowers and are obsessed with creating beautiful bouquets.

If you have been looking for stand-up flowers to give as gifts or to display in your home, then contact us. We would love to talk to you and create something amazing.

Frequently Asked Questions About Flowers That Look Like A Bird of Paradise

What Flower Is Mistaken for Bird of Paradise?

The flower most commonly mistaken for a Bird of Paradise is the Heliconia. Due to its vibrant, bird-like bracts and large tropical leaves, it is often called the 'false bird of paradise' or 'lobster claw'.

What Is the Difference Between Heliconia and Bird of Paradise?

The main difference is in their flower structure. A true Bird of Paradise (Strelitzia) has a flower that emerges from a single horizontal sheath and resembles a crane's head. A Heliconia's 'flowers' are actually a series of colourful bracts arranged along a stem, either upright or hanging. They are also from different plant families.

Is There a Flower Called False Bird of Paradise?

Yes, the name 'false bird of paradise' is a common nickname for plants in the Heliconia genus. This name is used because of its strong visual resemblance to the true Bird of Paradise (Strelitzia).

What Is the Cousin of the Bird of Paradise?

The Bird of Paradise (Strelitzia) is in the Strelitziaceae family. Its closest relatives are the traveller's palm (Ravenala madagascariensis) and the banana plant (Musa), making the banana its well-known cousin.

How Do You Take Care of a Heliconia Plant?

In Singapore, care for a Heliconia involves providing bright, indirect sunlight, using well-draining soil, and watering regularly while allowing the topsoil to dry out slightly to prevent root rot. Fertilise monthly with a balanced liquid fertiliser to encourage blooms.

Are Canna Lilies Related to Bird of Paradise?

No, Canna Lilies are not related to the Bird of Paradise. Although their large, paddle-shaped leaves look very similar, they belong to different plant families. Canna Lilies are in the Cannaceae family, while Bird of Paradise is in the Strelitziaceae family.