Bird of Paradise in Los Angeles 2024-2025

The official flower of LA may even surpass tropical orchids

Best time: September–May

Birds of Paradise, also famous as "Crane Flowers" are a beloved flower of Los Angeles that can be seen in various floral compositions. The unique flowers are similar to the head of birds of paradise. Most often they are compared to the head of a Firebird. Even the shape of the bend of a powerful long peduncle resembles an exquisitely curved bird's neck. Birds of Paradise flowers are large and bright. They are decorated with green and red vellum coverlets. They are the favourite flowers of hummingbirds.

In Los Angeles, these flowers can bloom at any time of year, but the heaviest autumn through spring (September–May). The peak of blooming season usually occurs in winter, particularly between February and March. In summer Bird of Paradise flowers too but rarely.

Practical info

What is special about Birds of Paradise flowers that make them a favourite of hummingbirds in Los Angeles?

Hummingbirds in Los Angeles prefer Birds of Paradise flowers due to their bright colour and nectar-rich flowers. These flowers are large, with a green and red vellum coverlet that attracts birds quite easily. The shape of this flower's bend and its long peduncle allows hummingbirds to reach the nectar with ease.

When is the peak blooming season of Birds of Paradise in Los Angeles?

The blooming season of Birds of Paradise in Los Angeles lasts all year round, but it is heaviest between September and May. Specifically, the peak blooming season is between February and March. Although bird of paradise blooms during summer, it is rare to see many then.

How can one distinguish Bird of Paradise flowers from other floral compositions in LA?

Bird of Paradise flowers can be easily identified amongst other floral compositions owing to their distinctive and bright appearance similar to the head of a bird, with green and red vellum coverlets and a long, powerful peduncle. The bend of the peduncle is smoothly curved, resembling a bird's neck shape. These flowers are commonly found in most parks and gardens within LA.

Where are the best locations in Los Angeles to enjoy Bird of Paradise sightings?

The Bird of Paradise flower is found in many gardens and parks across Los Angeles. Some of the best locations to get good views of the bird of paradise flower include The Getty Center, Kenneth Hahn State Recreation Area, and the Los Angeles County Arboretum and Botanic Garden. Additionally, these flowers can be seen in streets and alleys throughout the city.

What other attractions besides seeing birds of paradise can tourists explore while in LA?

LA combines sun, sand, and sea to become a vibrant city. While visiting places with birds of paradise is strongly recommended, there are other popular attractions to consider. Top tourist attractions include Universal Studios Hollywood, Disneyland Resort, the Hollywood Walk of Fame, Santa Monica Pier, Venice Beach, Griffith Park Observatory, the Getty Museum, and Rodeo Drive among the many others.