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26 Beautiful Flowers That Look Just Like A Bird

26 Beautiful Flowers That Look Just Like A Bird

Are you planning to turn your garden into a birdwatcher’s paradise? You’re on the right page because we’re here to help you achieve this ambiance with flowers that aren’t just flowers but feathered friends in disguise. 

In this article, we’ve curated a list of 30 flowers that look like birds. Read on to find the perfect bird-looking flora for your garden makeover!

1. Parrot Flower (Heliconia psittacorum)

Parrot Flower (Heliconia psittacorum)
Image: Martha Stewart
Scientific NameHeliconia psittacorum
Common NameLobster Claw Flower, False Bird of Paradise
OriginSoutheast Asia
FamilyHeliconiaceae
Plant TypePerennial
Soil RequirementsRich, well-drained
Blooming SeasonSummer
Light ExposurePartial shade
Size10-15 ft
HardinessTropical
Growth RateFast
ToxicityNon-toxic

The parrot flower is a tropical beauty with its flower resembling a parrot in flight with its prominent “head” and “wings” made of petals. This flower hails from the rainforests of Central and South America.

Parrot flowers will bring a touch of the tropics into your living room. For those living in warmer climates, they’re a great exotic specimen plant with the added benefit of attracting hummingbirds and butterflies with their nectar-rich blooms. 

2. Dove Orchid (Peristeria elata)

Dove Orchid (Peristeria elata)
Image: Raya Garden
Scientific NamePeristeria elata
Common NameHoly Ghost Orchid, Thunderstorm Orchid
OriginPanama
FamilyOrchidaceae
Plant TypeEpiphyte
Soil RequirementsMoist, well-drained
Blooming SeasonSpring
Light ExposurePartial shade to bright indirect light
Size3-6 ft
HardinessWarm
Growth RateModerate
ToxicityMildly toxic

The dove orchid is a breathtaking flower, mimicking the wings of a bird in flight. But if you look closer, you’ll see that the tiny golden beak and small head tucked inside are pure white waxy petals. 

This plant is indigenous to the rainforests of Central and South America. It emits a sweet scent, filling the air making it a perfect addition to your bedroom, living room, or office. 

3. Moon Orchid (Phalaenopsis amabilis)

Moon Orchid (Phalaenopsis amabilis)
Image: Wikipedia
Scientific NamePhalaenopsis amabilis
Common NameMoth Orchid
OriginSoutheast Asia
FamilyOrchidaceae
Plant TypeEpiphyte
Soil RequirementsWell-draining, orchid mix
Blooming SeasonYear-round
Light ExposureIndirect light
Size1-3 ft
HardinessWarm
Growth RateModerate
ToxicityNon-toxic

The Moon Orchid boasts soft white petals resembling moth wings from afar. It’s native to the tropical forests of Southeast Asia and thrives in humid environments. 

It has long, thick roots between fleshy leaves and white, long-lasting flowers on a branching stem. This epiphyte is a great addition to your window sills or a border plant, letting its soft luminescent flowers add an aura of mystery and romance to your home.

4. Bird of Paradise (Strelitzia reginae)

Bird of Paradise (Strelitzia reginae)
Image: The Spruce
Scientific NameStrelitzia reginae
Common NameCrane Flower
OriginSouth Africa
FamilyStrelitziaceae
Plant TypePerennial
Soil RequirementsRich, well-drained
Blooming SeasonSpring and summer
Light ExposureFull sun to partial shade
Size5-10 ft
HardinessFrost tender
Growth RateModerate
ToxicityMildly toxic

The Bird of Paradise is a popular flower resembling a brightly colored bird in flight, with its fiery orange and blue bracts forming the bird’s wings, a sharp, white beak, and a crest of yellow and purple feathers. 

This exotic plant is native to South Africa and thrives indoors and outdoors. You can use it as a houseplant or a specimen plant, making it a showstopper in any room or attracting hummingbirds and butterflies for outdoor gardens.

5. Tiarella Angel Wings (Tiarella cordifolia ‘Angel Wings’)

Tiarella Angel Wings (Tiarella cordifolia 'Angel Wings')
Image: Rare Roots
Scientific NameTiarella cordifolia ‘Angel Wings’
Common NameFoamflower, False Mitrewort, Gingerbread Plant
OriginNative to Eastern North America, from the Appalachian Mountains to the Mississippi River Valley
FamilySaxifragaceae
Plant TypePerennial
Soil RequirementsMoist, humus-rich, well-drained soil
Blooming SeasonSpring (April-June) and fall (September-October)
Light ExposurePart shade to shade
Size12-18 inches
HardinessZones 4-8
Growth RateModerate
ToxicityNon-toxic

The Tiarella Angel Wings have deeply lobed leaves resembling an eagle’s wings or a swallow in flight. It’s a cultivar of the North American native Tiarella cordifolia, developed and patented in 2008 by horticulturist Hans Simon.

Tiarella Angel Wings can be grown in containers or terrariums near bright windows. Outdoors, they make excellent border plants or ground covers in rock gardens since their compact size and intricate foliage can quickly fill small spaces. 

6. White Egret Orchid (Habenaria grandifloriformis)

White Egret Orchid (Habenaria grandifloriformis)
Image: Gardenia
Scientific NameHabenaria grandifloriformis
Common NameEgret Flower, Fringed Orchid, Crane Orchid, Sagiso
OriginSoutheast Asia
FamilyOrchidaceae
Plant TypeTerrestrial
Soil RequirementsMoist, well-drained
Blooming SeasonSummer
Light ExposureFull to partial shade
Size1-2 ft
HardinessWarm
Growth RateModerate
ToxicityNon-toxic

The White Egret Orchid is a stunning flower with two highly fringed petals resembling the egret’s extended wings and an elongated petal resembling a long, pointed beak. It’s native to the wetlands and meadows of Japan, China, and Korea.

The White Egret Orchid can transform gardens into miniature wetlands, attracting butterflies and hummingbirds with its sweet nectar. Indoors, it can add a touch of tranquility and sophistication to any room and is best placed in window sills. 

7. Western Bearded Greenhood (Pterostylis barbata)

Western Bearded Greenhood (Pterostylis barbata)
Image: Wikipedia
Scientific NamePterostylis barbata
Common NameGreenhood Orchid, Bearded Spider Orchid
OriginAustralia
FamilyOrchidaceae
Plant TypeTerrestrial
Soil RequirementsSandy, well-drained
Blooming SeasonSpring
Light ExposureFull to partial shade
Size6-12 inches
HardinessModerately hardy
Growth RateModerate
ToxicityNon-toxic

The Western Bearded Greenhood is indigenous to the southwest of Western Australia. It’s known for its green hood-like flower, which looks like a tiny bird’s head peeking beneath its leafy green cloak.

It also has a rosette of leaves at the base of the plant, and each flowering stem carries up to 20 stem leaves. This orchid is best planted in shady areas of outdoor gardens, creating a miniature woodland with your ferns and other shade-loving plants. 

8. Callista Primula (Primula calliantha)

Callista Primula (Primula calliantha)
Image: Wenbo Chen Photography
Scientific NamePrimula calliantha
Common NameHimalayan Cowslip, Calypso Primrose
OriginHimalayas
FamilyPrimulaceae
Plant TypePerennial
Soil RequirementsMoist, well-drained
Blooming SeasonSpring
Light ExposurePartial to full shade
Size6-12 inches
HardinessHardy
Growth RateModerate
ToxicityNon-toxic

The Callista Primula is another vibrant flowering plant known for growing clusters of tubular flowers that look like tiny birds with their beaks outstretched. This tropical plant is native to the lush rainforests of Southeast Asia. 

Add this to your outdoor garden to attract beneficial pollinators like hummingbirds and butterflies with their sweet nectar. If you want to add a pop of color to your room, you can place it on a windowsill in your living room or bedroom.

9. Regal Bird Flower (Paradisaea apoda)

Regal Bird Flower (Paradisaea apoda)
Image: Our Breathing Planet
Scientific NameParadisaea apoda
Common NameGreater Bird-of-Paradise
OriginNew Guinea
FamilyParadisaeidae
Plant TypeBird
Soil RequirementsVaried
Blooming SeasonJune – September
Light ExposureVaried
SizeUp to 40 inches
HardinessSensitive to frost
Growth RateModerate
ToxicityUnknown

The Regal Bird Flower is a flowering plant native to Australia with bird-shaped flowers with black markings perched on its stems. It also has hairy branches, dull green leaves and club-shaped seed pods. 

It belongs to the legume family, and aboriginal people use its sap to treat eye infections. The Regal Bird Flower makes a great houseplant, adding a green and whimsy touch to a windowsill or any room. 

10. Yulan Magnolia (Magnolia denudata)

Yulan Magnolia (Magnolia denudata)
Image: Gardenia
Scientific NameMagnolia denudata
Common NameLily Magnolia, Chinese Tulip Tree
OriginChina
FamilyMagnoliaceae
Plant TypeDeciduous tree
Soil RequirementsMoist, well-drained
Blooming SeasonLate winter to early spring
Light ExposureFull sun
Size20-40 ft
HardinessHardy
Growth RateModerate
ToxicityNon-toxic

The Yulan Magnolia is a tree that blooms with fragrant, cup-shaped flowers that resemble doves in flight. Native to China, its flowers are also called lily flowers, which are creamy white and bloom in late winter or early spring. 

This versatile tree makes a stunning focal point for your garden, attracting hummingbirds and butterflies with its sweet nectar. You can also enjoy the Yulan Magnolia as a bonsai tree for a touch of nature and serenity in your living room.

11. Flying Duck Orchid (Caleana major)

Flying Duck Orchid (Caleana major)
Image: Wikipedia
Scientific NameCaleana major
Common NameDuck Orchid, Flying Duck
OriginAustralia
FamilyOrchidaceae
Plant TypeTerrestrial
Soil RequirementsSandy, well-drained
Blooming SeasonSpring
Light ExposureFull sun to partial shade
Size6-12 inches
HardinessModerately hardy
Growth RateModerate
ToxicityNon-toxic

The Flying Duck Orchid has a tiny, purple flower with a long, curved column that forms the duck’s neck and head. If you look closer, you’ll also see two narrow petals shaped like a wing, while the labellum takes the shape of the duck’s body. 

This orchid is indigenous to the eucalyptus woodlands of eastern and southern Australia. You can plant it in a shady garden, surrounded by ferns, or place it in any room to create a mini-sanctuary inside your home.

12. Exotic Heliconia (Heliconia spp.)

Exotic Heliconia (Heliconia spp.)
Image: Nature Rabbit
Scientific NameHeliconia spp.
Common NameLobster Claws, False Bird of Paradise
OriginCentral & South America
FamilyHeliconiaceae
Plant TypePerennial
Soil RequirementsRich, well-drained
Blooming SeasonYear-round
Light ExposurePartial shade
Size5-20 ft
HardinessVaries by species
Growth RateModerate
ToxicityNon-toxic

The Exotic Heliconia is known for its colorful bracts with contrasting patterns and textures, resembling long, curved bird beaks. They’re native to the tropical rainforests of Central and South America and thrive in warm, humid climates.

Add it to your outdoor garden to create a tropical haven and attract hummingbirds and butterflies. It can also add a touch of the tropics and brighten up your living room or entryway at home.

13. Bat Flower (Tacca chantrieri)

Bat Flower (Tacca chantrieri)
Image: Wikipedia
Scientific NameTacca chantrieri
Common NameBlack Bat Flower, Devil’s Flower
OriginSoutheast Asia
FamilyTaccaceae
Plant TypePerennial
Soil RequirementsRich, well-drained
Blooming SeasonSummer
Light ExposureFull sun to partial shade
Size1-3 ft
HardinessTropical
Growth RateModerate
ToxicityNon-toxic

The Bat Flower is a captivating plant known for its velvety, black, bat-shaped bracts that resemble a bat’s wings. It’s native to the tropical rainforests of Southeast Asia, where it grows in the shade of taller trees. 

The Bat Flower usually comes alive at night as its white flowers and bracts reflect the moonlight and glow. You can use it as an exotic plant nestled among ferns and other shade-loving plants or a houseplant placed in a well-lit area. 

14. Songbirds Barrelwort (Sarracenia leucophylla)

Songbirds Barrelwort (Sarracenia leucophylla)
Image: Hewitt-Cooper Carnivorous Plants
Scientific NameSarracenia leucophylla
Common NameWhite Trumpet Plant, Hooded Pitcher Plant
OriginNorth America
FamilySarraceniaceae
Plant TypeCarnivorous
Soil RequirementsMoist, acidic
Blooming SeasonSpring to fall
Light ExposureFull sun
Size1-3 ft
HardinessHardy in zones 7-9
Growth RateModerate
ToxicityNon-toxic

The Songbirds Barrelwort grows flowers that have pointed petals on slender stems forming wings that create the illusion that a bird is flying. It’s indigenous to China’s lush forests but can thrive indoors and outdoors. 

You can add it to your outdoor garden beneath taller trees so its delicate flowers can create a miniature aerial ballet that attracts butterflies and hummingbirds. You can also place it among other shade-loving plants in your room or on a sunny windowsill.

15. Rowo Cucak Flower (Pedilanthus bracteatus)

Rowo Cucak Flower (Pedilanthus bracteatus)
Image: Peakd
Scientific NamePedilanthus bracteatus
Common NameBird’s Nest Orchid, Lips of Venus
OriginSoutheast Asia
FamilyAraceae
Plant TypeTerrestrial
Soil RequirementsRich, well-drained
Blooming SeasonSummer
Light ExposurePartial shade to full shade
Size1-2 ft
HardinessWarm
Growth RateModerate
ToxicityNon-toxic

The Rowo Cucak Flower is known for its vibrant red stalk adorned with clusters of bright green leaves, which resemble the head and beak of the Rowo Cucak bird, native to Indonesia, hence the name.

You can add them to your garden for an exotic flair while attracting hummingbirds and butterflies with their sweet nectar. Indoors, these vibrant blooms bring color and life to any room, like on a sunny windowsill.

16. Angel Orchid (Phalaenopsis schilleriana)

Angel Orchid (Phalaenopsis schilleriana)
Image: Orchid Roots
Scientific NamePhalaenopsis schilleriana
Common NameSchilleriana Orchid
OriginPhilippines
FamilyOrchidaceae
Plant TypeEpiphyte
Soil RequirementsWell-draining, orchid mix
Blooming SeasonYear-round
Light ExposureIndirect light
Size1-3 ft
HardinessWarm
Growth RateModerate
ToxicityNon-toxic

The Angel Orchid is a miniature plant that grows flowers bearing an uncanny resemblance to a dove in flight. It’s native to the mountains of Southern India and thrives in warm, humid environments. 

It’s a perfect addition to an outdoor garden nestled among rocks and moss or grown in hanging baskets or small pots. It blooms profusely throughout the winter and early spring, with its mild fragrance adding charm and serenity to any space in your home.

17. Vegetable Hummingbird (Sesbania grandiflora)

Vegetable Hummingbird (Sesbania grandiflora)
Image: iPlantz
Scientific NameSesbania grandiflora
Common NameHummingbird Plant, Mexican Honeysuckle
OriginMexico & Central America
FamilyLamiaceae
Plant TypeShrub
Soil RequirementsRich, well-drained
Blooming SeasonSpring to fall
Light ExposureFull sun to partial shade
Size3-10 ft
HardinessTender
Growth RateModerate
ToxicityNon-toxic

The Vegetable Hummingbird, as its name suggests, blooms vibrant red and white flowers that resemble hummingbirds in flight. It’s a fast-growing tree native to Southeast Asia and Northern Australia with loose branches adorned with clusters of flowers.

It also has edible leaves and flowers are prominently used in Southeast Asian dishes. They’re also great in outdoor gardens because of their nitrogen-fixing properties that help improve the soil, but they  can also be cultivated indoors in large containers.

18. Cranefly Orchid (Tipularia discolor)

Cranefly Orchid (Tipularia discolor)
Image: Wikipedia
Scientific NameTipularia discolor
Common NameCrane-fly Orchid, Yellow Orchid
OriginNorth America
FamilyOrchidaceae
Plant TypeTerrestrial
Soil RequirementsRich, moist
Blooming SeasonSummer
Light ExposurePartial shade
Size1-2 ft
HardinessHardy in zones 4-8
Growth RateFast
ToxicityNon-toxic

The Cranefly Orchid is native to the moist, humus-rich soils of deciduous forests of eastern and central United States. It’s known for its slender, twisting flower stalks that look like a crane in flight, complete with long, thin “legs” and a delicate “body.” 

You can add it to your outdoor garden as it thrives under the dappled light of mature trees. On the other hand, it’s a great addition to a terrarium or closed container with a cool, humid environment with bright, indirect light. 

19. Red Birds in a Tree (Erythrina indica)

Red Birds in a Tree (Erythrina indica)
Image: Plants of the World Online
Scientific NameErythrina indica
Common NameCoral Tree, Indian Coral Tree
OriginIndia
FamilyFabaceae
Plant TypeTree
Soil RequirementsWell-drained, loamy
Blooming SeasonSpring to summer
Light ExposureFull sun to partial shade
Size20-40 ft
HardinessTropical
Growth RateModerate
ToxicityNon-toxic

The Red Birds in a Tree is unique for its clusters of vibrant red, tubular flowers that look like a flock of small birds perched on a branch. The flowers have an elongated, curved petal as if they’re feathered wings, while the prominent spur at the base looks like a tail. 

They can tolerate drought well and require minimal maintenance, making it a low-maintenance option for gardeners. It’s also a great border or container plant, attracting pollinators to any garden.

20. Cockspur Coral Tree (Erythrina crista-galli)

Cockspur Coral Tree (Erythrina crista-galli)
Image: Gardenia
Scientific NameErythrina crista-galli
Common NameCock’s Comb Coral Tree, Rooster Comb
OriginSouth America
FamilyFabaceae
Plant TypeTree
Soil RequirementsWell-drained, loamy
Blooming SeasonSpring to summer
Light ExposureFull sun
Size15-25 ft
HardinessTropical
Growth RateModerate
ToxicityMildly toxic

The Cockspur Coral Tree grows vibrant flowers shaped like curved beaks in brilliant shades of orange-red that resemble a rooster’s crest. They’re native to South America and have drought tolerance and nitrogen-fixing abilities. 

The Cockspur Coral Tree makes a great focal point or can create a stunning hedge or screen. It can also be grown in a large container, adding a tropical touch to any space.

21. Ballerina Orchid (Oncidium sphacelatum)

Ballerina Orchid (Oncidium sphacelatum)
Image: Wikipedia
Scientific NameOncidium sphacelatum
Common NameDancing Lady Orchid, Butterfly Orchid
OriginCentral and South America
FamilyOrchidaceae
Plant TypeEpiphyte
Soil RequirementsWell-draining, orchid mix
Blooming SeasonYear-round
Light ExposureBright indirect light
Size1-2 ft
HardinessWarm
Growth RateModerate
ToxicityNon-toxic,

The Ballerina Orchid is native to the southwest of Western Australia. It’s popular for its  single, spider-like flower with long, slender petals resembling a ballerina in full pirouette. 

These delicate petals are a combination of cream, maroon markings, and black tips. The Ballerina Orchid typically blooms between August and early September and is best grown in specialized botanical gardens or controlled greenhouse environments.

22. Red Sage Flower (Salvia coccinea)

Red Sage Flower (Salvia coccinea)
Image: Gardenia
Scientific NameSalvia coccinea
Common NameScarlet Sage, Texas Sage
OriginMexico and Central America
FamilyLamiaceae
Plant TypePerennial
Soil RequirementsWell-drained, loamy
Blooming SeasonSummer to fall
Light ExposureFull sun to partial shade
Size2-4 ft
HardinessHardy in zones 7-11
Growth RateModerate
ToxicityNon-toxic

The Red Sage flower grows striking spikes, resembling a hummingbird’s beak, with small, tubular flowers that attract pollinators like bees and butterflies. They’re indigenous to Brazil and flourish in warm climates and partially shaded locations.

In outdoor gardens, the Red Sage can create stunning borders and mass plantings or be grown in containers for patios and balconies. It can also be grown in pots and placed in sunny windows, bringing a touch of the tropics into your home.

23. Green Birdflower (Ornithogalum saundersiae)

Green Birdflower (Ornithogalum saundersiae)
Image: Wikipedia
Scientific NameOrnithogalum saundersiae
Common NameChincherinchee, African Starflower
OriginSouth Africa
FamilyAsparagaceae
Plant TypePerennial
Soil RequirementsWell-drained, sandy
Blooming SeasonSpring
Light ExposureFull sun to partial shade
Size1-2 ft
HardinessHardy in zones 8-10
Growth RateModerate
ToxicityNon-toxic

The Green Birdflower stands out for its flowers that resemble tiny, green hummingbirds perched on the stems. Each flower possesses a “beak” formed by the keel petal and “wings” created by the two lateral petals. 

It’s a great magnet for hummingbirds and other pollinators, thanks to its abundant nectar-rich flowers when planted in mass or alongside other colorful flowers. It can also be successfully grown in large pots or containers for gardeners with limited space. 

24. Provence Orchid (Orchis provincialis)

Provence Orchid (Orchis provincialis)
Image: Wikipedia
Scientific NameOrchis provincialis
Common NameProvence Orchis, Fragrant Orchid
OriginEurope and North Africa
FamilyOrchidaceae
Plant TypeTerrestrial
Soil RequirementsWell-drained, loamy
Blooming SeasonSpring
Light ExposureFull sun to partial shade
Size1-2 ft
HardinessHardy in zones 5-8
Growth RateModerate
ToxicityNon-toxic

The Provence Orchid is a wildflower indigenous to the Mediterranean region. The upper petals and sepals of the flower form a hood, while the lower lip resembles a bird’s beak, making it look like a flying dove.

The Provence Orchid can be grown in pots indoors or as a beautiful and fragrant addition to borders, wildflower meadows, and rock gardens. It attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies, contributing to a healthy ecosystem in your garden.

25. Birdhead Orchid (Coryanthes macrantha)

Birdhead Orchid (Coryanthes macrantha)
Image: Wikipedia
Scientific NameCoryanthes macrantha
Common NameBucket Orchid, Helmet Orchid
OriginCentral and South America
FamilyOrchidaceae
Plant TypeEpiphyte
Soil RequirementsWell-draining, orchid mix
Blooming SeasonSpring to summer
Light ExposureBright indirect light
Size1-2 ft
HardinessHardy in zone 13
Growth RateModerate
ToxicityNon-toxic

The Birdhead Orchid is known for its flowers which look like a hummingbird’s head. If you look closer, you’ll see a curved upper petal resembling a beak and two lateral petals forming the head and wings. 

This epiphyte is indigenous to Southeast Asia, particularly the Philippines, Indonesia, and Malaysia. It can be cultivated in controlled greenhouse environments, botanical gardens and specialized orchid collections. 

26. Wild Columbine (Aquilegia canadensis)

Wild Columbine (Aquilegia canadensis)
Image: Wikipedia
Scientific NameAquilegia canadensis
Common NameEastern Red Columbine, American Columbine
OriginNorth America
FamilyRanunculaceae
Plant TypePerennial
Soil RequirementsWell-drained, loamy
Blooming SeasonSpring to summer
Light ExposurePartial shade
Size1-3 ft
HardinessHardy in zones 3-8
Growth RateModerate
ToxicityNon-toxic

The Wild Columbine is a wildflower native to eastern North America. The combination of the hanging bell-shaped flowers and the long spurs makes this plant resemble a hummingbird hovering in mid-air.

It can be used to add charm to borders and woodland areas, meadows and naturalized areas, while its nectar-rich flowers attract hummingbirds and butterflies. The drooping flowers also make it a perfect candidate for hanging baskets.

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