How to Grow Strelitzia: A Guide to the Bird of Paradise Plant

Strelitzia, commonly known as Bird of Paradise, is a strikingly beautiful plant native to South Africa. Named for its bird-like flowers that resemble a bird in flight, it is a popular choice among gardeners and plant enthusiasts. Here’s how you can successfully grow and care for Strelitzia, ensuring it thrives and graces your space with its exotic blooms.

Choosing the Right Variety

There are five species of Strelitzia, with Strelitzia reginae and Strelitzia nicolai being the most common in cultivation:

• Strelitzia reginae: Known for its bright orange and blue flowers, this variety is ideal for garden beds and large containers.
• Strelitzia nicolai: Also called the Giant Bird of Paradise, it produces white and blue flowers and can grow much taller, making it suitable for larger outdoor spaces.

Planting Strelitzia

1. Climate and Location:
Strelitzia thrives in tropical and subtropical climates but can also be grown indoors in cooler regions. They prefer full sun to partial shade, so choose a bright spot with plenty of indirect sunlight if grown indoors. In the UK, they can be grown outdoors during the summer months but should be brought inside or protected during the winter. Strelitzia can tolerate temperatures as low as 10°C (50°F) but should be protected from frost.

2. Soil:
Use well-draining soil rich in organic matter. A mix of standard potting soil with added perlite or sand works well to improve drainage.

3. Planting:

• Outdoors: Space plants about 4 to 6 feet apart to accommodate their large spread. Dig a hole twice the size of the root ball, place the plant, and backfill with soil, firming it gently around the base.
• Containers: Choose a large pot with drainage holes. Ensure the container is sturdy, as Strelitzia can become top-heavy.

Watering and Feeding

1. Watering:

• Young Plants: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
• Established Plants: Water deeply once a week, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. In winter, reduce watering.

2. Feeding:
Feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). Reduce feeding in autumn and cease during winter.

Maintenance and Care

1. Pruning:
Remove dead or damaged leaves regularly to encourage healthy growth and improve airflow. Prune flower stems once the blooms fade.

2. Pests and Diseases:
Strelitzia is generally resistant to pests, but watch for aphids, scale, and spider mites. Treat infestations with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal diseases.

3. Repotting:
Repot container-grown Strelitzia every 2-3 years to refresh the soil and provide more space for growth. This is best done in spring.

Flowering and Propagation

1. Flowering:
Strelitzia can take 3-5 years to flower when grown from seed. Ensure they receive enough light, nutrients, and space to encourage blooming. Flowers typically appear in late winter to early spring.

2. Propagation:

• Division: The easiest method. Divide the plant during repotting by separating the rhizomes and planting them individually.
• Seeds: Soak seeds in warm water for 24 hours before planting. Sow in a seed-starting mix and keep warm and moist. Germination can take 1-6 months, so be patient.

Overwintering Strelitzia in the UK

1. Indoor Transition:
In the UK, where winters can be harsh, it’s crucial to protect Strelitzia from frost. Move container-grown plants indoors before the first frost. If planted in the ground, consider potting them up temporarily or covering them with a frost cloth.

2. Indoor Care:

• Light: Place the plant in a bright spot with plenty of indirect sunlight, such as near a south-facing window.
• Temperature: Maintain indoor temperatures between 10-15°C (50-59°F). Avoid placing the plant near drafts or heat sources.
• Watering: Reduce watering frequency in winter. Water only when the top inch of soil is dry to the touch. Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot.
• Humidity: Increase humidity around the plant by misting the leaves regularly or using a humidity tray.

3. Outdoor Protection:
If moving the plant indoors isn’t possible, protect it with a thick layer of mulch around the base and cover it with a frost cloth. For larger plants, consider constructing a temporary greenhouse or using bubble wrap around the plant for additional insulation.

Longevity

Strelitzia plants are long-lived, often surviving for several decades with proper care. Some can live up to 50 years or more, making them a lasting addition to your garden or indoor space.

Tips for Indoor Growing

If growing Strelitzia indoors:

• Ensure the plant gets at least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight daily. Supplement with grow lights if necessary.
• Maintain high humidity by misting the leaves regularly or using a humidifier.
• Place the plant away from drafts and direct heat sources.

Conclusion

With their stunning flowers and lush foliage, Strelitzia plants can transform any garden or indoor space into a tropical paradise. By following these guidelines on planting, watering, feeding, and maintenance, and by taking special care to overwinter them properly in the UK, you can enjoy the unique beauty of the Bird of Paradise for years to come. Happy gardening!