Commonly referred to as Bird of paradise due to its flower resembling a bird. No tropical garden would be complete without the stunning impact of this amazing tropical species. Its exotic tropical flowers in orange, blue and white will add plenty of interest to any garden.
Planting Calendar
Strelitzia are best planted in the warmer months of the year.
Prepare
Position
Strelitzia loves the sun, so the more sun the better. Well suited to coastal or very dry gardens. Strelitzia reginae can also be grown in a large pot and the variety Nicolai can be grown as an indoor plant.
Soil
Drainage is important for Strelitzia to thrive. A free draining soil that has had added organic matter such as well rotted compost and sheep pellets. When planted into a pot plant into potting mix.
Plant
Gently tap the plant out of its pot. Dig a hole twice the depth and width of the plant's root ball. Mix Kings compost, and sheep pellets into your existing soil. Back fill the hole with this soil, so that when planted the top of the plant’s roots sit level with the surrounding ground. Firm the soil down gently and water in well with Aquaticus Garden Booster. In heavier clay soils, where drainage is likely to be an issue, plant onto a raised mound and sprinkle Gypsum Clay Breaker into the bottom of the hole, this helps slowly condition the soil and help to break down the clay.
Care
Watering
Bird of paradise will tolerate periods of dryness. Although for the plant to look its best, water once a week during dry spells.
Feeding
Feed monthly by adding some Aquaticus Garden Booster to the water, 2 monthly applications of sheep pellets will also add an extra boost, but make sure you apply it around the base of the plant, not inside the plant's clump.
Protecting
Slugs and snails like to snack on Bird of Paradise, so protect by applying Quash, make sure to re-apply after rain.
Mulching
Mulching will be beneficial to keep weeds under control, but insure that it is kept away from the base of the plant.
Spraying
Scale can be a problem on Strelitzia, this can be treated by spraying with Enspray99 oil.
Pruning
Prune to remove old leaves and flower stems, by cutting them down to the base.
Expert Tip
It can take up to 4-5 years before a young plant will flower.
Top Varieties
Strelitzia nicolai
Often referred to as the giant bird of paradise due to its height of up to 5m. With large upright paddle shaped leaves and large flowers that are white and pale blue sitting on dark purple -black bract. A great plant for the back of a tropical garden. Can also be grown indoors in bright light.
Strelitzia reginae
The most common variety that is used in Nz gardens. Flowers are on long stems and are orange, purple with a touch of white. Forms a large clump up to 2m x 2m.
