The LEGO® Icons Bird of Paradise (10289) launched in June 2021 (August 2021 in North America) and retired in December 2023. It’s one of the most eye-catching sets in the Botanical Collection. However, it also carries a price tag that surprises many fans. While most Botanical sets retail for around $50–$60, the Bird of Paradise launched at $99.99 and now often sells for over $240 on the resale market. So, why the heck is it so expensive?
Larger Pieces and Higher Brick Count
The set includes 1,173 pieces, more than most other Botanical models. Many of these are large, molded Technic elements used to create the wide, rounded leaves, which drive up production costs compared to smaller, standard parts.
Heavier, More Complex Base
Unlike other plant sets, the Bird of Paradise features a solid, weighted pot built with layered panels and Technic supports. This gives the model stability and allows its stems to sway naturally without tipping over, but it also adds bulk and cost.
Retired and Limited Availability
The set has been retired, which means new copies are no longer produced. In the U.S., it saw limited retail availability early on, which contributed to tighter aftermarket supply. As a result, resellers dominate the market, pushing prices upward.
Display Appeal vs. Realism
While striking, some reviewers note it looks less realistic than other Botanical sets like the Orchid or Bonsai Tree. Still, its bold flowers and oversized foliage make it a statement piece, which keeps demand high among collectors.
BrickEconomy Growth Snapshot
Data updated January 2026
- Retail price: $99.99
- Today’s new/sealed value: $241
- Total growth from retail: +141%
- Average annual growth since release: ~37.4%
- 2025 growth: ~5%
- Typical MISB range now: $200–$250
- Used value range: $116–$149
- 1-year forecast: $259 (about +7.3%)
- 5-year forecast: $354–$384 (about +54% from today)
- 2–3 year growth outlook: ~13.3% annually
Retired and Revered
The Bird of Paradise costs more because it is part dense display model, part large-parts showcase, and now a retired collectible. The aftermarket price is not only about bricks and design. It is also about scarcity and a growth track that has already more than doubled retail with moderate gains expected ahead.
- Why Is the LEGO® Bird of Paradise So Expensive? - January 28, 2026
- Why Is LEGO® Cloud City So Expensive? - August 18, 2025
- Why Are LEGO® Lord of the Rings Sets So Expensive in 2025? - August 18, 2025