How to Grow Bird of Paradise
Strelitzia Germination Information
Strelitzia is the botanical name for Bird of Paradise
How to Sow Strelitzia: - Sow fresh seeds indoors at 75-95°
- Seeds will germinate as early as 30 days and intermittently from 6 months up to a year
- To improve germination, remove the orange fluff and soak the seeds in warm water for 3-4 days
- Change the water daily
- It is not recommended to sow the seeds outdoors
How to Grow Strelitzia:
Transplanting: Transplant when there are at least two sets of true leaves
Soil: Grow in a rich, sterile potting soil with excellent drainage. Keep the soil evenly moist, but in late fall and winter allow the soil to dry out between waterings
Additional Care: For conservatory culture: site in full sun to part shade, provide high humidity and 55° nights, and fertilize twice monthly during active growth in spring and summer. Divide when they grow too large for the container
Appearance and Use:
A large (from 3-6 feet tall), clumping plant that is grown outdoors in warm climates, but also makes a suitable specimen for house and conservatory culture. The flowers cut well for fresh use. The 12-24 inch long, tropical-looking, banana-like, spear-shaped leaves have prominent pale or red midribs. Long, sturdy stalks bear the exotic, bird head-like, orange and blue flowers throughout winter and spring
About Strelitzia:
Pronunciation: stre-lit’se-å
Lifecycle: Potted Plant*
Origination: Strelitziaceae, native to South Africa
Common Name: Bird of Paradise
*Grown as a pot plant, however it will overwinter in Zones 10 and 11