White Bird of Paradise – Strelitzia nicolai – 10″ pot 3ft+ plant

The White Bird of Paradise plant, scientifically called Strelitzia nicolai, is a tropical plant loved for its big leaves and stunning flowers. It belongs to the Strelitziaceae family and is native to South Africa.

The White Bird of Paradise has large paddle-shaped leaves that can grow up to six feet long. The leaves are shiny and deep green, making a nice background for the plant’s unique flowers. The plant gets its name because the flowers look like birds in flight.

The flowers of the White Bird of Paradise are really beautiful. They come out from boat-shaped bracts that are creamy white with touches of blue and purple. The flowers grow in clusters on long stems and look like a bird’s head. It takes a few years for the plant to mature and produce flowers, but it’s worth the wait.

Taking care of the White Bird of Paradise means giving it the right conditions to thrive. It likes bright light but not direct sunlight, especially during the hottest parts of the day. It’s important to avoid strong sunlight because it can hurt the leaves. The White Bird of Paradise grows best in warm climates and can be grown outdoors in tropical and subtropical areas. If you keep it indoors, make sure it has enough space because it can get quite big.

Water the White Bird of Paradise moderately, letting the top few inches of soil dry out between waterings. It’s important not to give it too much water because that can cause root rot. During the growing season, it appreciates regular misting or being near a humidifier to keep the humidity levels up.

During the growing season, you can use a slow-release fertilizer that’s balanced to help the White Bird of Paradise grow and bloom. Just follow the instructions on the fertilizer package to avoid overfertilizing.

Sometimes you’ll need to prune the plant to remove any damaged or dead leaves and to keep its shape. It’s a good idea to wear gloves when handling the plant because its sap can irritate the skin.

The White Bird of Paradise is a tough plant and doesn’t usually have many problems with pests. But it’s a good idea to check for common pests like spider mites or mealybugs. Look at the leaves, especially underneath, and take action if you see any pests to keep the plant healthy.

Overall, the White Bird of Paradise is an amazing and majestic plant that brings a tropical elegance to indoor and outdoor spaces. Its lush leaves and beautiful flowers make it a favorite among plant lovers who want a standout plant that makes a statement.

Photo taken June 20, 2023