The Bird of Paradise (Strelitzia Nicolai) is the statement-making tropical plant your space has been waiting for. With bold banana-like foliage and a commanding presence, it brings serious visual impact to any room. Native to South Africa, this indoor giant can grow 6–8 ft tall in the right conditions—making it a favorite among interior designers and plant lovers alike.
Here’s everything you need to know about caring for your Bird of Paradise indoors.
Light Requirements
The Bird of Paradise thrives in bright, indirect sunlight but can handle some direct morning sun. A few hours of direct light from an east- or south-facing window will help it maintain strong, upright growth.
If leaves start to curl or the plant leans dramatically toward the light, it’s a sign it needs more sun. Rotate the plant every few weeks to encourage even growth.
Pro tip: In low-light homes, consider supplementing with a grow light to mimic tropical conditions.
Watering
Bird of Paradise prefers consistent moisture—but not soggy soil.
-
Water thoroughly when the top 2 inches of soil feel dry.
-
In spring and summer, this could mean watering every 7–10 days.
-
During fall and winter, reduce watering to every 2–3 weeks as growth slows.
Always empty the drainage saucer and avoid letting the plant sit in standing water.
Soil & Repotting
Bird of Paradise likes well-draining, aerated soil. Use a high-quality indoor potting mix that includes perlite, bark, or coco coir for airflow.
Repot every 1–2 years, or when you notice roots circling the bottom of the pot. Choose a pot that’s 2 inches wider than the current one and has drainage holes.
Fertilizing
During the growing season (spring through early fall), feed monthly with an organic liquid fertilizer formulated for indoor tropical plants. Look for something balanced like 3-1-2 or 10-10-10.
Avoid fertilizing in winter when the plant is dormant. And if you recently repotted into fresh soil, wait at least a month before feeding.
Humidity & Temperature
Bird of Paradise thrives in warm, humid environments:
-
Ideal temps: 65–85°F
-
Avoid temps below 55°F
-
Increase humidity by grouping plants, running a humidifier, or placing the pot on a pebble tray with water
Crispy leaf edges are often a sign of low humidity—especially in winter months when indoor heating is running.
Pruning & Maintenance
-
Remove yellow or damaged leaves by cutting them at the base using clean shears.
-
Wipe leaves with a damp cloth every few weeks to remove dust and boost photosynthesis.
-
Over time, Bird of Paradise may naturally split along the edges—this is normal and helps the plant withstand wind in its native environment.
Common Issues
-
Brown leaf tips? Likely underwatering or dry air.
-
Curling leaves? Not enough light or rootbound conditions.
-
No new growth? Could be low light, cold temps, or under-fertilization.
Will It Bloom Indoors?
While it’s rare for Strelitzia Nicolai to flower indoors, it is possible in ideal conditions after several years. When grown outdoors, it produces white and purple crane-like blooms, but most indoor growers prize it for the lush tropical foliage.
Pet Safety
Bird of Paradise is considered mildly toxic to pets if ingested. Keep out of reach of curious cats and dogs.
Styling Tip
Place your Bird of Paradise in a bright corner or near a large window in a neutral pot to let its foliage take center stage. It pairs beautifully with mid-century modern or coastal décor styles.
Ready to Add One to Your Space?
Looking for a Bird of Paradise that’s already lush and tall enough to make a statement?
