Strelitzia care guide
Strelitzia
Also known as: Bird of paradise plant
Pets and children
Caution advised
Dogs and cats that eat the flowers, fruit, or seeds can show nausea, vomiting, and drowsiness; keep it out of reach and consult a veterinarian (or a doctor, for a child) if eaten.
How often to water Strelitzia
- Spring–Summer (Mar–Sep)
- Every 7 days
- The thick roots store water, so as a guide water thoroughly once the topsoil has dried well; large-leaved kinds dry faster in midsummer.
- Autumn (Oct–Nov)
- Every 10 days
- Once it cools, water about two to three days after the soil dries.
- Winter (Dec–Feb)
- Every 14 days
- Keep it fairly dry, watering sparingly about a week after the soil dries, as a guide.
Light and placement for Strelitzia
All kinds like light: generally a bright south or east window indoors, with the smaller flowering kinds doing best in outdoor sun from spring to fall, while the big foliage kinds scorch if moved abruptly into midsummer sun.
Overwintering Strelitzia
Overwintering guide: 5°C (41°F) or above
Depending on the kind it takes about 3–5°C, but 5°C or more keeps the leaves undamaged as a guide; bring it to a bright spot indoors when nights fall below 8–10°C, away from frost and cold glass, and water less.
Fertilizing and repotting Strelitzia
Fertilizer
Slow-release fertilizer about every two months from May to September, with diluted liquid feed once or twice a month while new leaves keep coming; none from October on.
When to repot
Spring–Summer (Mar–Sep)
Common problems with Strelitzia
- Overwatering rots the thick roots and the leaves yellow and droop.
- Short of light the leaf stalks stretch thin and the leaves flop outward.
- Spider mites and scale insects settle in dry heated rooms.
Tips for growing Strelitzia
- Size and willingness to flower differ by kind, so choose one that fits your space.
- The roots are powerful, so repot about every two years into a deep, sturdy pot.
- Splits in the leaves are a natural result of wind and can be left alone.
These are AI-generated general guidelines. They vary with the variety, the placement and the pot size. For effects on pets or children, consult a veterinarian or a doctor.
Keep your plant log going
Greenery is a free app that keeps your plant care going, with watering reminders and photo records. Available on iOS and Android.
