Care instructions for
Bird of Paradise
Strelitzia is a genus of five species of perennial plant, native to South Africa. It belongs to the plant family Strelitziaceae. A common name of the genus is bird of paradise flower/plant, because of a resemblance of its flowers to birds-of-paradise. In South Africa, it is commonly known as a crane flower.
Light
• Place indoors in a room with bright, indirect light.
• Avoid intense, direct sun which can scorch leaves.
• Outdoors, it can tolerate full sun to light shade.
Water
• Water deeply when the top 1-2 inches of soil feel dry.
• Allow excess water to drain completely and do not let the plant sit in standing water, as this can cause root rot.
Soil & Fertilizer
• Use a well-draining potting mix. A mix with perlite, peat moss, or sand works well to prevent the soil from becoming waterlogged.
• Feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer during the growing season (spring and summer). Do not over-fertilize, as this can harm the plant.
Humidity & Temperature
• It thrives in warm temperatures between 65–85°F (18–29∘C).
• Keep it away from cold drafts, radiators, or A/C vents.
• This plant loves humidity. Boost it with a humidifier, a pebble tray with water, or by grouping it with other plants. Brown leaf tips can be a sign of low humidity.
Other Care Tips
• Repotting: Repot every 2-3 years or when the plant outgrows its container.
• Trim off old leaves and stems at the base as needed. You can also remove pups sprouting from the base.