Bird of Paradise
Big, paddle-shaped leaves on tall stems, the tropical look in one plant. It wants the sunniest spot you have and rewards it by growing fast. Flowers indoors are rare and take years; buy it for the leaves.
If you have a sunny window and want something tall and tropical fast, this is it. Bird of paradise puts up a new paddle leaf every few weeks through summer and can reach the ceiling in a few years.
The white-flowered Strelitzia nicolai is the giant; reginae is the one that flowers orange in gardens. Indoors, expect leaves, not flowers, unless the plant is mature and the light is exceptional.
Light
The brightest spot in the house. It wants several hours of direct sun a day and tolerates bright indirect light with slower, floppier growth. Put it right in a south or west window; it is one of the few big plants that can take it.
Water
Water when the top two inches are dry, about weekly in summer and every two weeks in winter, then let it drain. It is fairly forgiving both ways. Leaf edges split naturally in the wind outdoors and will do the same indoors near a fan; that is not damage.
Soil and potting
A rich, well-draining mix. It is a heavy feeder and a fast rooter; repot every two years in spring, going up two inches. It flowers better slightly root-bound, if flowers are the goal.
Feeding
A balanced feed every three weeks in spring and summer. It uses it.
Propagation
Division of a mature clump in spring. It does not root from cuttings. Seed is possible but takes years to reach any size.
In a hot, dry home
Made for bright, dry rooms. It handles full Arizona sun through glass better than almost any other leafy plant and does not mind AC. Water a little more often in July; a big plant in a sunny window dries fast. Dust the leaves monthly.
Problems and fixes
Leaves splitting along the veins
Likely cause: Normal, especially near fans or drafts
Fix: Nothing. It is how the plant is built.
Yellow leaves, lower ones first
Likely cause: Overwatering
Fix: Let it dry further between waterings.
Curling, crispy edges
Likely cause: Underwatering or very dry air
Fix: Water more deeply and consistently.
Floppy stems and small leaves
Likely cause: Not enough light
Fix: Move it into direct sun.
Bird of Paradise questions
Will a bird of paradise flower indoors?
Rarely, and only on a mature plant in a very bright spot. Treat flowers as a bonus and grow it for the leaves.
Is bird of paradise toxic to pets?
Mildly, to cats and dogs. The seeds and fruit are the main concern. Chewed leaves may cause nausea.
How much sun does a bird of paradise need?
As much as you can give it. Several hours of direct sun a day is ideal. It is one of the few houseplants that thrives in a south or west window.
