Caring For Your Bird Of Paradise

Hailing from South Africa, the Strelitzia is cultivated worldwide. The most common, Strelitzia Reginae, is a rapid grower that reaches four feet high and spreads in clumps. The Strelitzia Nicolai, commonly called the "White Bird Of Paradise," can grow up to fifteen feet high. Its leaves can easily be mistaken for those of a Banana. Another plant frequently called the Bird Of Paradise is the Caesalpinia Pulcherrima, although it is not related to the Strelitzia family.

The blooms commonly resemble a large, brightly colored tropical bird hence the name Bird Of Paradise. The name "Strelitzia" honors England's Queen Charlotte Sophia, Duchess of Mecklenburg-Strelitz who was the consort of King George III who was a patron of botany. You can find Strelitzias in many colors including white, orange, red, pink and yellow.

These plants prefer full sun in the winter and soil that is on the dry side. Once summer arrives they should be given a bit of shade during the hottest part of the day. They prefer soil that is deep, loamy, well drained and fertile. The soil should not lack for moisture, but it should not be wet.

In the spring when new growth appears you should increase the water along with giving your plant some fertilizer. A good fertilizer to use would be one teaspoon of ammonium sulphate per gallon of water every time you water. If you prefer to purchase a standard fertilizer look for one that has an analysis rating of 20/10/20. The last number can be higher, but preferably not lower.

The blooms of the Bird Of Paradise are actually a succession of blooms that open together instead of one large flower as many people think. Waiting on your Bird Of Paradise to bloom could take some patience. This plant is not for everyone, and would definitely be considered a novelty. The Bird Of Paradise will only bloom when mature and must be root bound in its pot. This could take two years or longer assuming that the exact needs of the plant are met. You can expect your bird to bloom anywhere from September through April.

Although it is possible to grow a Bird Of Paradise in a house, it prefers a greenhouse or sunroom that receives at least four hours or more of direct sunlight. Nighttime temperatures should not fall below 50 to 55 degrees during the winter months.

Once your Bird Of Paradise blooms you may want to collect seeds from it. In nature, Birds Of Paradise are pollinated by birds, however, you may choose to hand pollinate your plant.

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