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A vibrantly colored image of a Bird of Paradise plant with large green leaves on a bright green background.

Bird of Paradise

SCENTIFIC NAME: Strelitzia nicolai or reginae

KNOWN AS: Crane Flower

CLIMATE (LOCATION): South Africa | Humid Subtropical

DESCRIPTION: The Bird of Paradise plant is named for the beautiful flowers it can produce, but even without flowers, the bright green leaves and large size make it stand out.

Easy difficulty & pet toxic

Bird of Paradise Plant Care

Lighting

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

For Bird of Paradise plants to grow well, they need bright, indirect light with some bright, direct light. The best place for them is near a south-facing window, where they can get a few hours of direct sunlight in the morning or evening but are protected from the strong sun during the middle of the day. But they can also do well in places with just bright, indirect light, like near an east-facing window with a sheer curtain to spread the light. It's important not to put them in places with low light because that can slow down their growth and dull the brightness of their leaves.

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Watering

Quick Tip: Water until water comes out of drainage holes. Allow top 2 inches of soil to completely dry between waterings.

Bird of Paradise needs to be watered regularly to grow well, but too much water can cause the roots to rot. The best way to water is to let the top inch of soil dry out before adding more water. This plant likes to stay moist all the time, but not so much that it gets soaked. During the growing season, which usually lasts from spring to fall, you should water your plants once a week. When the plant is dormant in the winter, you should only water it every two to three weeks. It's important to use a soil mix that drains well and not let the plant sit in water. Also, misting the plant often can help raise the humidity and encourage healthy growth.

Temperature

Preferred Temperature: 60º - 75º

The bird of paradise plants prefers a warm and humid environment with a temperature range of 60-75°F (15-24°C). They are native to tropical regions and need a temperature range that is consistent with their natural habitat. It's important to keep the temperature stable as sudden drops or increases in temperature can harm the plant, the same goes for most plants. During the winter months, it's important to keep the plant away from cold drafts, as this can cause damage to the foliage and shock. Overall, maintaining a warm and stable temperature is key to health.

Humidity

Preferred Humidity: 60 - 70%; High Humidity

Bird of paradise plants are tropical plants that require high levels of humidity to thrive. Firstly, it's important to note that bird of paradise plants prefer a humidity level of around 60% to 70%. If the air in your home is dry, you can use a humidifier to increase the humidity levels around your plant. Alternatively, you can group your bird of paradise with other plants to create a microclimate of higher humidity, you can always use a hygrometer to ensure you are achieving this humidity. Another way to increase humidity around your bird of paradise is to mist its leaves regularly. This will help to keep the leaves moist and prevent them from drying out. Be sure to use room temperature water and avoid misting during the evening as this can encourage fungal growth.

Additional Plant Care

Propagation
Bird of Paradise can be propagated by dividing the plant. The division is the easier method and can be done in the spring when the plant is actively growing, never propagate a dormant plant. Carefully remove the plant from its pot and separate the roots with a clean, sharp knife, making sure each section has healthy roots and foliage. Repot each section into a new container with fresh potting soil and water thoroughly.
Toxicity
Bird of Paradise is a flowering plant that is toxic to humans and animals. It is still advisable to keep the plant away from children and pets to prevent accidental ingestion.
Repotting
Repotting a bird of paradise plant is typically done when the plant has outgrown its current pot or the soil has become compacted, making it difficult for water to penetrate through the root system. The best time to repot is during the spring or early summer months when the plant is growing. Start by choosing a pot that is one size larger than the current pot and fill the bottom with a layer of fresh, well-draining soil. Carefully remove the bird of paradise from its old pot and gently loosen any compacted soil around the roots. Place the plant in the new pot and fill the sides with fresh soil. Water the plant thoroughly and allow it to drain. Finally, place the plant in a bright, indirect light location and avoid direct sunlight for a few weeks after repotting to allow the plant to adjust to its new environment, with no shocks or stress!
Pruning
The key to pruning indoor bird of paradise plants is to remove any dead, damaged, or ugly foliage in order to preserve the plant's look and health. Trim off any stems or leaves that are turning brown or yellow with care using sharp, clean pruning scissors. In addition, if the plant grows too big or crowded, you can pick and choose which outer leaves or stems to cut off to promote greater airflow and keep the plant at a more manageable size. Pruning should not be done all at once to avoid straining the plant, and healthy leaves should not be removed in excess as they are crucial for photosynthesis, that's how they eat! Check the plant frequently for indications of pest infestation or illness, and remove any diseased leaves or stems right once to stop the spread of the problem. You can maintain your indoor bird of paradise plant looking tidy and vibrant by following proper pruning techniques.
Fertilizer
Bird of Paradise plants benefits from regular fertilization, especially during their active growth period in spring and summer. Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer, and dilute it to half-strength. Fertilize every two weeks during the growing season and reduce the frequency to once a month in fall and winter. Be careful not to over-fertilize, as this can damage the plant's roots and burn the foliage, too much of a good thing! To apply the fertilizer, water the soil thoroughly first, and then pour the diluted fertilizer solution onto the soil. Avoid getting fertilizer on the foliage, as this can cause burning. Regular fertilization can promote healthy growth and abundant flowering in bird of paradise plants.
Soil
The best soil for bird of paradise plants is one that drains well and has a lot of organic matter. A good soil mix can be made of peat moss, perlite, and sand. These plants need soil that drains well because their roots will rot if they stay in soil that stays too wet for too long. Bird of paradise plants do best in slightly acidic soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. This tropical plant likes soil that stays moist, but not so wet that it stays soggy. So, it's important to make sure the soil is moist, but not soggy, and to let it dry some before watering again.

Hanging Heights

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 - Bird of Paradise

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Soltech's Recommendation -

12" to 36"

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VIEW ASPECT GROW GUIDE

Vita Hanging Heights - Bird of Paradise

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Soltech's Recommendation -

36º Narrow Beam Vita : Not Recommended

60º Wide Beam Vita : Not Recommended

-

VIEW VITA GROW GUIDE

Highland Hanging Heights - Bird of Paradise

-

Soltech's Recommendation -

36º Narrow Beam Highland : 18" to 42"

60º Wide Beam Highland : 12" to 30"

-

VIEW HIGHLAND GROW GUIDE

Grove Hanging Heights - Bird of Paradise

-

Soltech's Recommendation:

  • Not Recommended

-

VIEW GROVE GROW GUIDE

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

Aura Light Distances - Bird of Paradise

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Soltech's Recommendation:

-

VIEW AURA GROW GUIDE

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