Strelitzia Reginae

Beautiful Strelitzia Reginae plants

The Strelitzia Reginae, better known as the bird of paradise, is a striking plant that originally comes from South Africa. It's part of the Strelitzia family, but stands apart as the only species that can grow flowers. Those spectacular blooms look like the head of a bird of paradise, in vivid colours and with a shape you won't see anywhere else. The Strelitzia Reginae also has separate stems, each carrying its own leaf, which gives the plant a full, lush look. With its exotic charm, this plant brings a touch of tropical splendour to any home.

What is the difference between a Strelitzia Reginae and a Nicolai?

The Strelitzia Reginae and the Strelitzia Nicolai are both beautiful members of the Strelitzia family, but they differ in a few important ways. The leaves of the Strelitzia Nicolai are much larger, and these plants often grow from several cuttings, which gives them a lush, full appearance. The Strelitzia Reginae, by contrast, has smaller, pointed leaves that each grow from their own stem, giving the plant a more streamlined and elegant shape.

The most striking difference is the flowering. At around seven years old, the Strelitzia Reginae can produce the iconic bird of paradise flowers. These colourful blooms are never guaranteed, though, because flowering depends on the conditions the plant grows in.

How large can a Strelitzia Reginae grow?

The Strelitzia Reginae stays relatively compact compared with other members of the Strelitzia family, such as the Strelitzia Nicolai or the Strelitzia Augusta, which can grow considerably larger. That difference comes down to the leaves of the Strelitzia Nicolai being top-heavy and starting to droop, which automatically makes the plant wider and more voluminous. With the Strelitzia Reginae that doesn't happen, because the leaves sit firmly on their stems. This keeps the plant in a more upright, elegant shape. Even so, the Strelitzia Reginae can grow large and full, with a leaf length of about 1.2 metres, so it remains a lush and eye-catching presence.

When will my Strelitzia Reginae get flowers?

The Strelitzia Reginae can get flowers when it is around five to seven years old, provided it has been grown in the right conditions. As mentioned above, there is never a guarantee that your Strelitzia will come into flower. Here are a few factors that can help it along:

• Age: the plant needs to be mature, which is usually around five to seven years old.
• Light: give it plenty of bright light. The plant needs at least four to six hours of sunlight a day to flower.
• Water: keep the soil moist, but not soaking. Let the top layer of soil dry out between waterings.
• Temperature: keep the temperature between 18-25°C. Protect the plant from cold draughts and sudden changes in temperature.
• Plant food: feed the plant regularly during the growing season (spring and summer) with a special plant food.
• Space: give the plant plenty of room to grow. Repot if needed, to stop the roots becoming constricted.
• Patience: even in ideal conditions flowering varies, and it stays a natural process with no absolute guarantees.

Is the Strelitzia Reginae toxic?

Like every other Strelitzia, the Reginae is mildly toxic if eaten. The sap from the stems and leaves can cause irritation, and eating the leaves can lead to health problems. That's why it's important to take extra care around small children and curious pets. For a safe choice, have a look at our collection of pet-friendly houseplants.

Caring for a Strelitzia Reginae

Happily, the Strelitzia Reginae isn't a demanding houseplant. It doesn't need a lot of care, but there are still a few important points to bear in mind. Because it comes from warm regions, the bird of paradise grows best at a minimum temperature of 15 degrees Celsius. This robust houseplant loves plenty of sunlight and thrives in moist soil.

Watering the Strelitzia Reginae

The Strelitzia Reginae likes slightly moist soil, especially during the summer months when it gets a lot of sunlight and takes up water faster. It's important not to give too much, though, because excess water can lead to root rot. In spring and summer, watering once a week is enough in most cases, since the plant is in its growing season. In autumn and winter the plant is resting and needs less water: once every two weeks is enough in most situations.

It's also a good idea to mist the large leaves now and then with a plant sprayer. This doesn't just remove dust, it also raises the humidity around the plant and helps keep pests away.

Choosing the perfect spot

The Strelitzia Reginae does best somewhere with plenty of light, ideally near a south-facing window. Without enough daylight the plant can't grow at its best and the leaves become less attractive. So give your Strelitzia Reginae a lovely spot where it can shine and develop properly.

Feeding the Strelitzia Reginae

The Strelitzia Reginae gives its best results when you feed it during the spring and summer months. Use houseplant food for this. In winter, when the plant goes into its resting period, it's important not to feed it at all. Too many nutrients can do harm then.

Pruning the Strelitzia Reginae

You can prune your Strelitzia Reginae as soon as the leaves start to show signs of age. The lower leaves are usually the oldest and the first to lose their freshness. Cut these leaves off as close to the stem as possible with sharp scissors or a pruning knife. Take care, because the sap of the Strelitzia Reginae can be irritating. Wear gloves and work carefully while you prune.

Repotting a Strelitzia Reginae

It helps to know when to repot the Strelitzia Reginae. Once you notice the plant is outgrowing its pot and becoming unstable, it's time. Use the right materials, such as a waterproof inner liner, vulcastrat and a moisture meter/water level indicator. Choose a new decorative pot that is about 20% larger than the current one, so your Strelitzia Reginae has enough room to keep growing and settle in comfortably.

Tackling diseases and pests

No plant is completely immune to pests, but you can reduce the risk for your Strelitzia Reginae by misting the leaves with water regularly. This helps keep unwanted insects at a distance and supports the overall health of your plant. If your Strelitzia Reginae does end up with a stubborn infestation, we're here to help with expert advice and tips. Do get in touch for support in tackling pests, so your plant stays in perfect condition and keeps growing beautifully.

Ordering a Strelitzia Reginae from Green Bubble

Looking for a Strelitzia Reginae? At Green Bubble we work closely with trusted growers, so we can always offer fresh, beautiful houseplants. We're committed to quality and aim every day to deliver healthy, high-grade plants to our customers. You can order your Strelitzia Reginae easily through our user-friendly website. With our Personal Plantshopper option, you can pick the perfect Strelitzia Reginae for you over WhatsApp, based on photos.

At Green Bubble you order your Strelitzia Reginae straight from our online shop and we take care of delivery to your front door. Experience how easy buying plants online can be with Green Bubble.