Bird of Paradise

The Bird of Paradise (Strelitzia reginae) is an indoor statement plant with big, paddle-shaped leaves and a clean, upright silhouette that instantly elevates a room. Given strong light, it can mature to roughly 46 feet tall and about 35 feet wide indoors, filling a corner without looking messy. Also known as crane flower, crane plant, birds tongue flower, and canna-leaved strelitzia, it naturally develops leaf splits to handle wind in its native habitat. Weve found it settles in best when it gets bright light from day one.Best Locations For Growing Bird of ParadiseSet it in a living room or sunroom near your brightest window, or use it as a floor plant in a home office where it can stretch up without brushing the ceiling. It also works well in an entryway with strong natural light, where the leaves are at eye level as you walk past. This plant is not pet-friendly, so its a poor choice for homes where cats or dogs chew foliage.Bird of Paradise Sunlight RequirementsBird of Paradise prefers bright indirect to direct light, with a south- or west-facing window often working best indoors. If it has been in lower light, move it closer to the window over a week or two so the leaves dont scorch.Bird of Paradise CarePlant in a well-draining potting mix, and choose a container with drainage holes since soggy soil stresses the roots. This plant prefers to be a little root-bound, so repot every 23 years or when roots are forcing their way out, stepping up just one pot size. Wipe the broad leaves occasionally so the plant can access light fully.Watering Bird of ParadiseWater about every 12 weeks, soaking thoroughly and discarding any excess. Let the top 12 inches of soil dry between waterings. It enjoys extra humidity and is often happier with filtered water or tap water thats been left out overnight to dissipate chlorine.Feeding Bird of ParadiseFeed monthly in spring and summer with a balanced liquid fertilizer to support new leaf production and stronger stems. Hold fertilizer in fall and winter when growth slows, and restart when you see fresh growth again.