What kind of banana plant bears flowers but no fruit?
A bird of paradise, of course.
Yes, that exotic-looking plant in your neighbor’s yard is actually a banana expatriate from South Africa, a country known for bizarrely beautiful flora and large carnivorous animals.
Bird of paradise bears a gaudy blossom that resembles a bird in flight, hence its name. Southern California’s mild climate is perfect for this tropical beauty, but you can grow it indoors as well.
This is a bird of paradise in flight. Can you see the resemblance?
Popular Bird of Paradise Varieties
- Strelitzia Nicolai: Also known as the giant white bird of paradise, this variety is a fast-growing plant that can reach up to 30 feet tall. It features large leaves and impressive white flowers with blue accents.
- Strelitzia Reginae: The most commonly grown variety, also known as the orange or crane flower, has distinctive orange and blue flowers that resemble a bird’s head.
- Mandela’s Gold: This unique variety was named after Nelson Mandela and features bright yellow flowers instead of the usual orange or white.
Propagation
Bird of paradise plants can be propagated by dividing mature clumps or through seed germination. Dividing mature clumps produces blooms significantly faster than growing the plant from seeds.
Propagation by Division
- Choose a mature plant with multiple stems.
- Carefully dig around the base of the plant. Do not damage the roots.
- Use a sharp knife or spade to divide the clump into smaller sections, ensuring each has at least one healthy stem and a robust root system.
- Plant each divided section in a pot with well-draining soil and keep it in a warm and bright location until new growth appears.
The delicate construction and brilliant colors of a bird of paradise flower.
Propagation by Seeds
- Collect seeds from a mature bird of paradise flower after it has bloomed and dried naturally on the plant.
- Soak the seeds in water for 24 hours before planting them in a seed-starting mix.
- Keep the soil consistently moist and in a warm location (around 70°F).
- Germination can take anywhere from 3 to 8 weeks.
Ideal Growing Conditions
Late winter or early spring is the best time to plant bird of paradise in Southern California. This gives the plant time to establish itself before the hot summer months.
Temperature
- Bird of paradise plants thrive in warm, tropical climates with temperatures between 50-72°F.
- They can tolerate brief periods of cold weather but are not frost-resistant.
- Consider growing your plant indoors or in a greenhouse if you live in a colder climate.
The stunning bright orange bloom of a bird of paradise plant.
Sunlight
- Bird of paradise loves bright light and plenty of it.
- Plants need at least six hours of direct sunlight daily day to flourish.
- If you’re growing them indoors, place them near a south-facing window for the most sun exposure.
Preparing the Soil
- Soil should be rich and well-draining.
- Add compost or organic matter to enrich the soil and provide necessary nutrients for your plant.
- Soil pH should be between 6.0 and 7.5, slightly acidic to neutral.
- If planting in a container, mix potting soil and sand or perlite.
- If planting in the ground, ensure it’s not too compacted and has enough organic matter.
Repotting Container Plants
- Repot into a larger pot with fresh soil every 2–3 years.
- Use a mix of peat moss, compost, and sand for best results.
- Select a pot at least twice the size of the current one.
- Carefully remove the plant from its old pot and gently loosen any compacted roots before placing it in the new pot.
- Water thoroughly after repotting and keep the soil moist.
Bird of paradise plants growing indoors.
Maintenance
- Keep soil evenly moist but not soggy.
- Fertilize monthly during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer (10-10-10).
- Prune dead or damaged leaves as needed.
Caring for Bird of Paradise
- Water regularly, keeping the soil moist but not saturated.
- Fertilize every 2–3 months with a balanced fertilizer.
- Prune dead or damaged leaves and flowers to keep your plant healthy and tidy.
- If growing indoors, mist your plant occasionally to mimic its natural humid environment.
Common Pests & Diseases
- Birds of paradise can sometimes attract mealybugs and aphids.
- Watch for signs of infestation and treat promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil spray.
- Root rot can occur if the soil is too wet or poorly draining.
- If you notice yellowing or wilting leaves, check the roots for signs of rot and adjust watering accordingly.
Closeup of a bird of paradise flower.
Blooming
Bird of paradise plants take a few years to flower when grown from seed. Expect to wait about 3–5 years for your bird of paradise to produce blooms.
However, if you propagate the plant from a mature division, it may flower within 1–2 years.
Ensure your plant is well-established with adequate light, proper watering, and regular feeding during the growing season.
Time of Bloom
In their native habitat, bird of paradise plants bloom from late winter to early spring. Depending on growing conditions in other regions, they can bloom at different times.
With proper care, they can produce flowers year-round in containers or Southern California conditions.
FAQs: Growing Bird of Paradise
Q: How often should I water my bird of paradise?
Water when the top inch of soil is dry, allowing excess water to drain. Adjust the frequency based on seasonal changes and indoor or outdoor conditions.
Q: Why isn’t my bird of paradise flowering?
This can result from insufficient light, immaturity, or improper care. Review growth conditions and ensure the plant is healthy and mature enough to flower.
Can bird of paradise grow indoors?
Yes, with proper light, temperature, and care. Place it in a bright area near a window and follow watering and fertilizing guidelines.
How tall does bird of paradise grow?
Birds of paradise can reach up to 5–6 feet high, but the giant variety can grow up to 30 feet (we don’t recommend the giant variety indoors!). Regular pruning will help control the size of your plant.
Q: Can bird of paradise be grown from seeds?
Yes, but it requires patience. Germination can take anywhere from 1 to 3 months. To increase the chances of successful germination, soak the seeds in water for 24 hours and scarify them by gently sanding the outer shell before planting.
Q: What type of fertilizer should I use for bird of paradise?
A balanced fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 mix, works well. Fertilize monthly during the growing season (spring and summer) to promote healthy growth and blooming. Avoid excess fertilization, which can lead to root burn and poor plant health.
Q: How do I handle yellowing leaves on my bird of paradise?
Yellowing leaves can indicate overwatering, poor drainage, or a lack of nutrients. Check that the soil drains well and adjust the watering frequency to ensure the soil is moist but not saturated. If the issue persists, apply a balanced fertilizer to address potential nutrient deficiencies.
Q: Is bird of paradise toxic to pets?
Yes, bird of paradise plants are mildly toxic to pets if ingested. The plant can cause mild digestive issues, including vomiting or diarrhea. If your pet shows symptoms after eating the plant, contact your veterinarian for advice and care.