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 a 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. Dig in plenty of compost before planting, water in well, and mulch to keep roots cool.
Watering & feeding
Giant Bird of Paradise does best with regular, moderate watering. A light spring feed is usually enough to maintain steady growth. New plantings need closer moisture checks in hot or windy weather, with watering tapered once strong new growth appears.
Pruning & care
Tip-prune Giant Bird of Paradise in spring to maintain a dense, shapely habit. Expect a low maintenance care workload once it is established.
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 easier irrigation and care, group Giant Bird of Paradise with species that also favour regular, moderate watering and tropical climate. Leave enough room for the mature spread so neighbouring plants are not crowded out.
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. Catalogue forms are planning guidance until the Plant Sale team confirms live availability.
