How to Care for Bird of Paradise

Strelitzia spp.

ABOUT BIRD OF PARADISE

Create a tropical statement in your home with this stunning plant, featuring bold arching leaves. In the summer months, they add palm-like texture to decks, patios and other outdoor spaces.

In addition to cleaning the air, it improves your mood, lowering stress and anxiety.

In Feng Shui, the plant represents energy and success.

WATERING

When should I water my Bird of Paradise?

These plants are drought tolerant once established. To see if your plant needs water, stick your finger about an inch down into the soil. If it feels dry, water. If the soil feels moist, do not water. If you are unsure, check again in a few days.

Never mist your foliage. Misting leaves causes fungal issues and disease. The only plants that are okay to mist are ferns and carnivorous plants.

LIGHT NEEDS

Grows best in medium or bright indirect light. They can handle direct sun as well.

Illustration of a living room with labeled plants, including a Bird of Paradise. A chair, window, and table with plants (numbers 1 and 2) are in the center. A small cabinet with plant number 3 is to the right. Icons below indicate light levels: high, medium, and low.

GROWTH

Heights vary based on variety and conditions, growing anywhere from 3-10 ft.

SOIL NEEDS

Prefers a well-drained soil mix.

TEMPERATURE & HUMIDITY

Prefers average home temperatures and high humidity.

FERTILIZING

Fertilize March through October. Can be pruned occasionally to cut out split leaves and older or less attractive stalks at the base. To help it grow optimally and evenly, occasionally dust the leaves and rotate the pot by a ¼ turn once a month.

IS BIRD OF PARADISE PET SAFE?

According to the ASPCA, it is toxic to dogs, cats and horses.

TROUBLESHOOTING

If you notice the leaves splitting, do not be alarmed. This is completely normal. Split leaves allow for wind to pass through the plant without causing breakage. If you notice the leaves curling inward, the cause is likely underwatering. Yellow, wilted leaves are a sign of overwatering.

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The Benefits of Houseplants

(…and why we love them)

A lush fern plant with long, slim fronds is displayed in a sleek white, modern pot, resembling the elegance youd seek when learning how to care for African violets. The plant takes center stage against a plain white background.

They purify & clean the air

A small tree with a thick trunk and glossy green Bird of Paradise leaves in a white geometric-patterned pot, surrounded by smooth, round stones.

Boost your mood, reducing stress & anxiety

A Bird of Paradise with lush green, long, pointed leaves sits elegantly in a white pot against a pristine white background.

Help you sleep better

A vibrant green fiddle leaf fig plant sits elegantly in a textured white pot against a plain white background, reminiscent of minimalistic spaces. Though different from cacti, its care brings a serene beauty to any room.

Act as natural humidifiers

A potted monstera plant with several large, glossy green leaves featuring natural holes and splits stands proudly in a plain black pot against a white background. Its exotic charm might remind one of a Bird of Paradise, adding an elegant touch to any space.

Enhance cognitive skills

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