New shoots of traveler's tree are produced at the base of the plant and should be removed if a solitary form is desired. However, the leaves of traveler's tree are arranged in a flattened, symmetrical fan and the flowers lack blue petals. Its large size and white flowers resemble the traveler's tree ( nicolai (white or giant bird-of-paradise) grows to 15-30 feet and has large, paddle-like leaves arranged spirally around a distinct stem. Strelitziaceae family which contains other species often seen in central and south Florida landscapes. Bird-of-Paradise plants make a handsome focal point in the landscape. To ensure flower production in north Florida, grow bird-of-paradise in a container that can be moved indoors during freezes.įigure 2. The plant will tolerate temperatures as low as 24☏ for a short time however, freezing temperatures will damage developing flower buds and flowers. The evergreen leaves of bird-of-paradise do not drop from the plant, which makes it an excellent addition around pools or wherever shedding leaves are an aesthetic and/or maintenance problem.īird-of-paradise makes an attractive landscape plant throughout Florida although it requires cold protection in the northern part of the state. The plant forms a 3- to 5-foot-tall clump that can be used as a focal point in the landscape (Figure 2) or in mass plantings. The leathery leaves are held upright on stiff leafstalks and are about 6 inches wide and 18 inches long. The herbaceous plant derives its common names from the unique flower it bears, which resembles a brightly colored bird in flight (Figure 1). Best practice is always to keep houseplants out of reach of small children and pets.Bird-of-paradise or crane flower ( Strelitzia reginae) is a native of South Africa and is closely related to the banana. SYMPTOM: Wilting, curling leaves, dry potting mixĬAUSE: Thirsty plant, underwatered Precautionsīirds of Paradise can be irritating to cats, dogs, and humans if foliage consumed. SYMPTOM: Yellowing lower leaves, wet potting mix Treat pests as soon as they appear with weekly sprays of a natural pesticide like neem oil and regular wipe-downs of the plant.ĬAUSE: Normal adaptive precaution to help the plant bear strong winds in its natural habitat
The Bird of Paradise is an easy-going plant and is generally pest-free but can be prone to spider mites. Use a well-draining potting mix. Mix in ingredients such as perlite or lava rocks to increase soil aeration as need. It’s best not to let it go below 60☏ (15☌). Most houseplants prefer temps in the 65☏-85☏ range (18☌-30☌). Consider incorporating a fine-mist mister or humidifier to boost humidity level indoors. Normal room humidity will do, but prefers humid conditions if possible.
Pro tip: Birds of Paradise can benefit from filtered water or water left out overnight before using. Water every 1-2 weeks, allowing soil to dry out between waterings. Expect to water more often in brighter light and less often in lower light.
Thrives in bright indirect light to full sun when acclimated. Queen Charlotte was a patron of the arts and an amateur botanist, and helped to expand Kew Gardens.” Sunlight “Practically Plant Royalty: This plant’s scientific name commemorates Charlotte of Mecklenburg-Strelitz, Queen consort and wife of King George III.
Learn how to care for a Bird of Paradise below. In doing so, they eliminate the risk of being snapped in half by a strong wind. They have evolved to create splits along their lateral leaf seams to allow the wind to pass by.
The split leaves that give the Bird of Paradise its bird-like morphology is scientifically believed to be purposeful leaf tearing or lobing of leaves to reduce drag in the wind. Under the right conditions, including full, southern light exposure, proper humidity and temperature, Bird of Paradise may flower indoors, although this is rare. These regal plants (for which they are named, reginae) are named for the beautiful, orange crane-like flowers that they produce, like birds of paradise. Many often mistakenly call this plant the “banana tree” because it looks like banana plants. Given its own family Strelitziaceae by taxonomists, it is still closely related to bananas (Musaceae). Strelitzia reginae is a species of evergreen tropical herbaceous plant, native to South Africa. Let’s take a closer look at this natural wonder. If you’ve ever mistaken a plant for a bird, or vice versa, you may have encountered a Bird of Paradise plant.