The Strelitzia, or Bird of Paradise flower, together with the King Protea, is recognised as a national flower of South Africa. Both endemic to our country, the protea won the contest, but the crane flower was at least honoured on the reverse side of a 50c coin. Strelitzia is seen as a symbol of freedom, and also represents immortality. This special symbolism deserves a good story to with go it, so if you are giving someone a Strelitzia, include a card explaining why they deserve it.