Strelitzia nicolai – Bird of Paradise – HydroCare
Also known as the Wild Banana or Crane Plant, Strelitzia are known for their lush, tropical foliage. They make stunning architectural plants, due to their tall erect stems and wide, banana-like, paddle shaped leaves.
The HydroCare version of Strelitzia nicolai is the larger, white flowering relative of Strelizia reginea (the orange flowering Bird of Paradise).
Please note: Bird of Paradise may not always flower when kept indoors and plants are not shipped in flower. The leaves naturally tear and have a shabby chic, rugged appearance and foliage is unlikely to be pristine.
HydroCare
– Strelitzia nicolai – Bird of Paradise Care & Info Guide
Horty Hints
Feeling the Burn! Even plants suffer sunburn, and the Bird of Paradise is no exception. While this plant prefers bright light, find a spot free of direct sunlight to avoid scorching.
The leaves will split naturally as the plant matures. This is to allow light to reach the lower parts of the plant. Rotate the plant occasionally to encourage even growth.
Fertiliser or Fungal? If you are heavy handed with the fertiliser, it will display as brown speckled markings on the leaves. If you haven’t fertilised then it could be fungal. See our fungal remedies help guide.
Light
Strelitzia nicolai grow best in environments with bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight however, as this may scorch the leaves and damage the flowers.
Watering
Keep an eye on the water meter. Water when the meter has been on minimum for 7 to 10 days. Check out our HydroCare set up guide for more information.
Temperature
The Bird of Paradise prefers warm temperatures from 21-28°C but can cope with temperatures as low as 13°C.
Humidity
Strelitzia will do best with increased humidity but can usually cope in normal household conditions. Increase the surrounding humidity in the winter to combat dry air from central heating.
Feed
Add a Hydroculture liquid feed every 2 to 3 waterings during the spring and summer months.
Height & Growth Rate
The Bird of Paradise is a fast-growing plant in warm conditions, usually reaching an ultimate height of 5-6m outdoors, while indoors it is more likely to stop growing around 3m.
Please note: each plant is unique so available heights are approximate and the plant you receive may vary by ±10%.
Toxicity
Strelitzia are toxic to animals. There is less definitive information regarding the nicolai, with some sources listing this as non-toxic. In the event of uncertainty, we would recommend you consider this plant as toxic to animals.
Air Purifying
Not specifically known for its air purifying properties, however most broad leafed plants will filter airborne toxins to some degree.
Origin
Strelitzia nicolai ‘Bird of Paradise’ originates from Southern Africa.
