Giant Bird of Paradise

Strelitzia nicolai (streh-LIT-see-uh NICK-oh-lye)

Family: Strelitziaceae Unknown Understory (15-40 ft)

The white bird of paradise is a large tropical evergreen perennial native of Botswana, KwaZulu-Natal, Mozambique, and Zimbabwe and is found along coastal dunes and forests. It has large banana-like leaves of grayish-green, and its flowers are blue and white with a purplish-black, beak-like spathe. Its flowers look like an exotic bird. In its native habitat it can grow 20 to 30 feet tall and 6 to 10 feet wide and has an upright habit with an irregular crown and clumping stalks. It is popular as an ornamental houseplant and can be grown outdoors in warm climates. The genus name, Strelitzia, honors Queen Charlotte, who was the wife of King George III of England. She was from the house of Mecklenburg-Strelitz. The specific epithet, nicolai, honors Nikolai Nikolaievich, the son of Nicholas I, Czar of Russia. This plant is a member of the traveller's-palm family (Strelitziaceae). This plant prefers bright, indirect light and moist, well-drained soils of loam and sand with an acidic to neutral pH. Water the plant when the top layer of soil feels dry, but once established it becomes more drought tolerant. This plant prefers temperatures between 65 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit. It will not tolerate temperatures below 50 degrees Fahrenheit. Avoid cold drafts and sudden temperature changes. It also prefers high humidity. Consider setting the plant on a tray of wet pebbles or use a humidifier to increase interior humidity. During the spring and summer, a balanced liquid fertilizer may be used once a month. In warmer climate if planted outside, this plant needs protection from strong winds that will damage the leaves. Remove any ripped or torn leaves. The best method of propagation is by division or seeds. The white bird of paradise has a woody stem that is up 1.5 feet wide. The leaves can grow up to 6.5 feet long. This plant flowers year round and consists of white and blue tepals with a purplish-black bract. The fruits are woody capsules, and the seeds are large, black with an orange aril. Birds native to Africa feed on the nectar of the flowers, and monkeys enjoy the seeds. The white bird of paradise is makes the perfect indoor plant if you are looking for an exotic and tropical vibe. In warmer climate, consider this plant for use on a patio. Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems: Monitor for scale, spider mites, aphids, and mealybugs. No significant known diseases. The leaves can be ripped along its veins from the wind. Mature plant produce flowers and may take up 5 to 6 years before flowering. When planted outdoors, avoid planting near buildings or sidewalks because its root system is very aggressive. This plant is toxic to humans, dogs, cats, and horses. Keep tis plant out of the reach of small children or pets. Wear protective gloves when handling this plant due to the chance of skin irritation.

Source: NC State Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox ↗ NC State Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox, 64 attributes.