Also known as bird of paradise, these are South African plants with spectacular flowers and large paddle-shaped evergreen leaves. They are tender, so need to be grown indoors in the UK, in a conservatory or large bright room, where they’ll make a big tropical centrepiece. They can grow to at least 1.5m (5ft) tall and 1m (3¼ft) wide over time. Plants can also be moved outside over the summer to give a tropical boost to a warm, sheltered patio.
 
There are several species, but Strelitzia reginae is the most popular for growing as a houseplant. It produces flamboyant orange and blue flowers in winter and spring, which stand tall above the foliage, and each one lasts up to a month. Plants usually need to be a substantial size, and five to ten years old, before they flower.