The three genera with seven species[2] of Strelitziaceae have been included in Musaceae in some classifications, but are generally recognized as a separate family in more recent treatments such as the APG II system (2003).

The APG II system assigns the Strelitziaceae to the order Zingiberales in the commelinid clade.

The other species of Strelitzia have less colourful flowers and are grown instead for their striking foliage.

Also grown for its foliage is the traveller's tree, Ravenala madagascariensis.

Phenakospermum Strelitzia Ravenala Zingiberaceae Costaceae Cannaceae Marantaceae Lowiaceae Strelitziaceae Heliconiaceae Musaceae