Strelitzia nicolai
Giant Bird of Paradise
From: £54.95
An iconic plant with a striking architectural form, Strelitzia nicolai, or the ‘Giant Bird of Paradise’, is a banana-like evergreen perennial that is perfect as a statement plant for sunny interiors.
Strelitzia nicolai differs from Strelitzia reginae in its larger size, and its magnificent flowers which appear in gorgeous white and blue tones.
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Plant Biography
Strelitzia reginae and Strelitzia nicolai are both indigenous to South Africa. There they are pollinated by birds, and it’s their stunning floral morphology that they’re beloved for that is also crucial to their survival.
The colour of the flower attracts birds looking for nectar, whilst the shape of the flower makes sure they can only reach it from a particular spot – the fused blue petals. When sunbirds perch upon it to drink the nectar the petals open, covering their feet with pollen which the bird will take with it to the next plant.
Expert Tip
The Bird of Paradise Flower
Strelitzia nicolai is difficult, though not impossible, to bloom indoors in the UK climate. Strelizia reginae, the smaller Bird of Paradise plant with orange flowers is easier, though still not easy.
Strelitzias need to reach maturity before they can flower, which takes several years if grown from seed (often 6-8 years). If you’re hoping for it to flower soon, we recommend buying the most mature plant you can afford.
Care & Size Guidance
Giant Birds of Paradise are a brilliant choice for bright rooms, as they require a large amount of bright, indirect sunlight and warmth. That said, too much direct sunlight can scorch the leaves, and they prefer cooler temperatures at night.
In their native environment they can grow 6 metres tall, but grown indoors in the UK their ultimate height is usually about 3 metres, whilst their leaves can eventually grow to reach an enormous 2 metres on mature plants
To prevent yours from growing so tall, they can stay root bound happily in the same size pot for many years.
A really nice example of the plant I brought. They also include a comprehensive plant care leaflet, I also like the fact that the plant has a warranty, which also probably means that if you are having some problems with the plant they will give advice on what to do to solve.
Martin C. –
I have ordered from The Palm Centre before and always coveted the larger plants but not been able to afford them. This Bird of Paradise is huge, even though it was the small size (at £39.95) – although I had to wait nearly a month because of covid-19 delays, when I received this plant today I was really impressed – and it takes a lot to impress me! A very large plant for the price with three individual plants in the pot. Packaging was great and the plant is very healthy condition.
Amanda W. –
The first plant I received had unfortunately been damaged. I contacted customer services and they very kindly and quickly replaced this plant. This was delivered healthy and looks stunning!
Nicola S. –
the bird of paradise plant is first class height well in spread it was very well packed
David M. –