Graduation day marks the beginning of a young man’s life where he breaks from the flock and sets off on his own unique adventures, so choosing the right flowers for a boy graduating from college can sometimes prove quite the test. There is no better way to celebrate his migration from college to the real world than with the exotic Bird of Paradise flower (known by the Latin name, Strelitzia reginae). This tropical knock-out stands out from other typical flowers and will let him know that you value his originality and can’t wait to see what he’ll accomplish next!

Birds of Paradise are bright, orange, tropical flowers that are native to South Africa, but have grown in popularity and can now be found growing in upscale planters in warmer climes. In its native land, it is often called Crane flower and is so valued there you’ll find its imagine on the 50 cent coin. It is an important plant biologically, as it serves as the perch for native sunbirds, a distant cousin to American hummingbirds, who pollinate each flower with their feet as they flit from one to the next.

As a cut flower, this spectacular stalk is prized for its gracefully arched neck and long-lasting flowers. Reaching two to three feet tall, the vivid flower resembles the head of a bird with magnificent plumage. The orange petals open up slowly over time to reveal a purple center. Lasting for several weeks, these stems look great on their own or mixed with a bit of bear grass or with a Bird of Paradise leaf itself, which resemble large, green banana leaves. No need to invest in a whole bouquet, as a few stems of these bold blooms arranged artfully in a vase are all that’s needed to turn a tabletop into a tropical paradise. Set them in a tall, clear container with rocks at the bottom for a manly look or in a colorful container that reminds him the world is his oyster.

Most florist will carry this stately stem, though it won’t be found in the cooler if you walk in to pick out your own bouquet. These tropicals are typically stored at room temperature and may be in back, so be sure to ask if you don’t see them on display. They are available year-round and can even be ordered in yellow or red. Since they are often imported from far-off, exotic climes, these blooms are a little on the pricier side compared to other standard flowers, but will last a lot longer and just three of them will make more of an impact than dozens of roses. Much like a good college education, they are certainly worth the investment.

Originally posted 2014-03-18 08:15:35.