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Illustration of green leaves on a beige background

White Bird Of Paradise

SCIENTIFIC NAME: Strelitzia nicolai

KNOWN AS: White Bird of Paradise, Giant Bird of Paradise, Wild Banana

CLIMATE (LOCATION): South Africa | Subtropical

DESCRIPTION: The White Bird of Paradise is a spectacular statement plant known for its massive, banana-like leaves and upright, palm-like growth. In the wild, it can grow into a massive tree, but indoors it serves as a dramatic focal point. Its large, architectural foliage brings an instant tropical feel to any bright room. 

White Bird Of Paradise Plant Care

Lighting

Light Requirement: Full Sun (Bright Direct Light) & High Light (Bright Indirect Light)

White Bird of Paradise craves light. To thrive and maintain its structural integrity, it needs at least 4-6 hours of bright light daily. It can handle direct morning sunlight, but in extremely hot climates, some afternoon shade is beneficial to prevent leaf scorching. Insufficient light will lead to weak, leaning stems and a lack of new growth.

Discover Our Grow Lights

BEST SELLER
White Soltech Aspect Gen 2 Hanging over Fiddle Leaf Fig Plant with a Teal background.
White Soltech Aspect Gen 2 Hanging over Fiddle Leaf Fig Plant with a Teal background.
Aspect™ Gen 2 LED Growlight
$200.00

Color:

White Black
A white Soltech Vita displayed against a yellow background with a wicker object and a green leaf in the backdrop.
A white Soltech Vita displayed against a yellow background with a wicker object and a green leaf in the backdrop.
Vita™ Grow Light
$85.00

Color:

White / Wide (60°) Black / Wide (60°)
A white Soltech Highland on the Highland Track Light System mounted on a rail, with a backdrop of an orange wall and green foliage.
A white Soltech Highland on the Highland Track Light System mounted on a rail, with a backdrop of an orange wall and green foliage.
Highland™ LED Track Light System
$230.00 - $740.00

Color:

White / 1 light / Narrow (36 Degrees) Black / 1 light / Narrow (36 Degrees)
A Black Soltech Grove positioned on a table with a plant in the background, illustrating the product's use for indoor plants.
A Black Soltech Grove positioned on a table with a plant in the background, illustrating the product's use for indoor plants.
Grove™ LED Grow Light
$130.00

Color:

Black White

Watering

Quick Tip: Water when the top 50% of the soil is dry. Do not allow the plant to sit in standing water.

This plant prefers to be kept consistently moist but not soggy. During the spring and summer, water thoroughly once the top half of the soil feels dry. In the winter, allow the soil to dry out a bit more. These plants are sensitive to salt buildup, so flushing the soil with filtered water occasionally can prevent brown leaf tips.

Temperature

Preferred Temperature: 65º - 85º

The White Bird of Paradise loves warmth. It thrives in standard indoor temperatures but should be kept away from cold drafts and air conditioning vents. It is not frost-tolerant; temperatures below 50ºF can cause significant damage or death to the foliage.

Humidity

Preferred Humidity: 50 - 80%; Moderate/High Humidity

While it can adapt to average home humidity, it prefers a more humid environment. If the air is too dry, the large leaves may develop brown, crispy edges or have trouble unfurling. Using a humidifier or misting the leaves regularly will help keep the foliage looking lush.

Additional Plant Care

Propagation
The White Bird of Paradise is most commonly propagated by division. How to Propagate: During repotting, look for "pups" or offsets growing at the base of the main trunk. Carefully separate these from the parent plant, ensuring the offset has its own established root system, and plant it in its own pot. Note: Growing from seed is possible but can take several years to produce a substantial plant.
Toxicity
Quick Warning: The White Bird of Paradise is toxic to humans and animals. The plant contains tannins, and the seeds contain toxic amines. Ingestion can cause nausea, vomiting, and drowsiness. Keep this large plant in a location where pets and children cannot chew on the lower leaves.
Repotting
This is a fast-growing plant that can quickly become "pot-bound." When to Repot: Generally every 1–2 years in the spring. Choose a Pot: Use a large, heavy-bottomed pot (like ceramic or stone) to prevent the top-heavy plant from tipping over. Ensure it has excellent drainage. Repot: Use a rich, well-draining potting mix and ensure the plant is centered for stability.
Pruning
Pruning is necessary to keep this giant plant manageable indoors. Maintenance: It is natural for the oldest, bottom leaves to turn brown and die off as the plant grows. Cut these off at the base with sharp, clean shears. Splitting: Don't be alarmed by vertical splits in the leaves; this is a natural adaptation to allow wind to pass through the foliage in the wild.
Fertilizer
White Bird of Paradise is a heavy feeder during the growing season. What to Use: A balanced, water-soluble fertilizer (10-10-10). When to Apply: Fertilize every 2 weeks during the spring and summer. Stop fertilizing in the winter months.
Soil
The White Bird of Paradise needs a rich but well-draining medium. Ideal Mix: A high-quality potting soil mixed with perlite and compost. Important Tip: The soil should be able to hold some moisture while allowing excess water to drain freely to prevent root rot.

Hanging Heights

White Bird Of Paradise Lighting Requirements: Full Sun (Bright Direct Light) & High Light (Bright Indirect Light)

Chart showing recommended hanging heights for Soltech Aspect and popular plants for each range.

Aspect Hanging Heights - White Bird Of Paradise

-

Soltech's Recommendation -

24" to 36"

-

VIEW ASPECT GROW GUIDE

Vita Hanging Heights - White Bird Of Paradise

-

Soltech's Recommendation -

36º Narrow Beam Vita : 24" to 36"

60º Wide Beam Vita : 12" to 24"

-

VIEW VITA GROW GUIDE

Highland Hanging Heights - White Bird Of Paradise

-

Soltech's Recommendation -

36º Narrow Beam Highland : 18" to 42"

60º Wide Beam Highland : 18" to 48"

-

VIEW HIGHLAND GROW GUIDE

Grove Hanging Heights - White Bird Of Paradise

-

Soltech's Recommendation:

  • 1" to 12"

-

VIEW GROVE GROW GUIDE

Lighting guide for plants with Soltech Aura and potted plants on a neutral background

Aura Light Distances - White Bird Of Paradise

-

Soltech's Recommendation:

-

VIEW AURA GROW GUIDE

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