A towering tropical with huge, paddle-shaped banana-like leaves that fill a bright room. The quintessential statement plant for a sunny indoor corner.
At a glance
- Plant type: Indoor plant
- Mature size: 3 m H × 1.5 m W
- Aspect: full sun and part shade or morning sun
- Water: regular, moderate watering
- Frost: tender
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Giant Bird of Paradise
Botanically, Strelitzia nicolai is an fast-growing indoor plant in the Strelitziaceae family. It reaches around 3 m tall and 1.5 m wide at maturity, with evergreen foliage.
Where to grow Giant Bird of Paradise
Giant Bird of Paradise suits tropical and subtropical climates and grows best in full sun and part shade or morning sun. It is frost tender, so protect it from hard frosts or grow it in a sheltered spot or pot.
Soil & planting
Most soils suit Giant Bird of Paradise provided drainage is reasonable. Plant into well-prepared ground, firm the soil around the roots and water deeply to settle it in.
Watering & feeding
Giant Bird of Paradise is regular, moderate watering. A feed in spring with a balanced fertiliser keeps growth strong. In its first year, water deeply once or twice a week to settle the roots in, then taper off as it establishes.
Pruning & care
Tip-prune Giant Bird of Paradise in spring to maintain a dense, shapely habit. Overall it is low maintenance.
Using Giant Bird of Paradise in the garden
Giant Bird of Paradise earns its place for pots and courtyard containers and a feature or specimen planting. It is equally at home in the ground or a large pot on a balcony or courtyard.
Companion planting & design
For a cohesive, low-care bed, pair Giant Bird of Paradise with other plants that enjoy the same regular, moderate watering and tropical climate. Repeat it through a border to tie the planting together and give a sense of rhythm.
Good to know
Note that it is toxic to cats and dogs, so site it away from pets that chew.
Buying Giant Bird of Paradise
Plant Sale lists Giant Bird of Paradise as potted plants and advanced specimens. Stock isn't live yet — register your interest using the panel above and we'll email you the moment we have it ready.