One of the most well-known tropical flowers is the unique bird of paradise (Strelitzia spp.). has a close kinship with the banana plant. The plant known as the bird of paradise is so named because it resembles the corresponding tropical bird so much. It makes for a robust, quickly growing indoor plant and is simpler to grow than many tropical species. The majority of the year it flourishes and can be relocated outside in the summer.
Although the bird of paradise usually blooms in the late winter or early spring, it can bloom at other times of the year if the right circumstances are present. These plants have no trunk and grow with upright leaves that emerge from the ground. When exposed to windy circumstances or brushed against in a crowded hallway, the huge leaves, which are 12 to 18 inches long, may split.
Care
Direct sunlight, frequent watering, and warmth are the keys to effective indoor development. Compost feed the plant early in the spring before new growth starts, and fertilize once a week throughout the growing season. Grow the plant in a container that can be taken outside during the warm summer months and brought back inside during the winter to boost its chances of survival.
Light
For this plant to blossom properly, intense light is required, including some direct sunshine. However, it needs protection from the midday summer sun, which can damage young plants’ leaves. 2 A site with windows facing east or west is ideal. The solitary window in a room should be facing north.
Soil
For plants in pots, use a compost mixture or a rich, well-drained potting mix. If you’re using a pot, make sure it has enough drainage holes to let water pass through the soil and out the bottom.
Water
Keep the soil consistently hydrated all year long. Even though it shouldn’t be soggy, you should water it every day in the spring and summer because of how much moisture its large leaves absorb. Make sure it doesn’t sit in a pool of water and water it only until you notice the water draining from its drainage holes. The plant will grow crispy, brown leaves if it receives too much water. The leaves furthest from the center will turn yellow if submerged.
Temperature and Humidity
High humidity is preferred by birds of paradise. If your home is dry, you might want to have a spray bottle nearby to spritz it. In the winter, keep the air temperature above 60 degrees Fahrenheit. This plant is not cold-tolerant, however it does recover.
Fertilizer
This plant consumes a lot of food. Feed it weekly with liquid fertilizer during the growing season or monthly with slow-release pellets in the spring.
Potting and Repotting
A plant called a bird of paradise grows quickly and must get to a certain size before it can bloom. In a 10-inch pot, a bird of paradise that is three to four feet tall thrives. In a 14-inch pot, a 5- to 6-foot plant often grows well. Every spring, repot it into a pot that is one size larger. Let it be pot-bound once it reaches maturity so that it will bloom. When it has reached maturity or blossomed at least once, you can divide it, but you should only do so occasionally because dense clumps bear the most blooms. The blooming cycle is broken by repotting.
Table
