Learn All About Bird of Paradise (Strelitzia) with our Guide
The Bird of Paradise gets its name from its beautiful blue and orange flowers (Strelitzia Reginae) or the white flower variety (Strelitzia Nicolai), which resemble an exotic bird. They are part of the Strelitziaceae family and are native to South Africa. They can grow 10-20 feet tall in their natural habitat and are an ever popular houseplant choice for living rooms and bright spaces as they are easy to care for.
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Light |
The Bird of Paradise (Strelitzia) can handle direct and bright indirect light. However, it will flourish most in a sunny spot with direct sunlight. |
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Watering |
Water your Bird of Paradise (Strelitzia) when the soil is 50% dry. Water until liquid flows through the drainage hole at the bottom of the pot and discard any water that has accumulated. |
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Humidity |
Bird of Paradise (Strelitzia) prefers a humid environment. It likes to be misted daily or alternatively place it close to a humidifier or use a pebble tray if you notice it developing any leaves with crispy edges. |
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Temperature |
Average indoor temperatures of 18-25c are best for the Bird of Paradise (Strelitzia). |
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Fertilizer |
Feed your Bird of Paradise (Strelitzia) an average of once a month during the growing season (March-September). No fertilizer is required during the Winter months when plant growth naturally slows down. |
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Toxicity |
Bird of Paradise (Strelitzia) is considered toxic to pets and humans if ingested. |
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Additional Care Information |
Bird of Paradise (Strelitzia) is sensitive to salt and mineral build-up, so water that’s too hard or soft can cause browning leaf edges. If you notice this try using rain or distilled water. If you notice the plants leaves splitting, this is natural. In its natural habitat Bird of Paradise (Strelitzia) do this to protect their large leaves from snapping in the wind and rain. |
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Troubleshooting |
Dry and curling leaves are common among Bird of Paradise (Strelitzia) grown indoors. This is normally due to lack of moisture and humidity. Although not impossible, do not be disappointed if your Bird of Paradise (Strelitzia) does not flower. It’s extremely rare for this to happen unless the conditions from its natural habitat are replicated exactly. |
The information above is written by Plantila and should be used as a guide only. Please don't hesitate to contact us if you need any additional advice. If you have purchased a plant at Plantila that's not doing so well please send us a picture via WhatsApp to 028 42 798478 and we will try to help.