Care Strelitzia
The Strelitzia is not only an eye-catcher, but also quite easy to care for if you know what it needs. We will explain step by step how to best care for your Bird of Paradise plant, so that it feels completely at home with you.
Strelitzia care
Care tips for Strelitzia in brief
| Guarantee | Fresh from the grower | |
| Delivery type | Houseplant delivered in growing pot | |
| Latin name | Strelitziaceae | |
| Location | Full sun | |
| Water requirements | Approximately once or twice a week | |
| Toxic | Mildly toxic if ingested | |
| Air purifying | Yes | |
| Maintenance | Low |
“What makes this plant so special are its large leaves, which often tear naturally and have robust edges. It may sound a bit rough, but these irregularities are characteristic of the Bird of Paradise plant.”
Frequently asked questions about the Strelitzia
Quick answers to the most frequently asked questions about water, light, nutrition and care.
How can I increase the humidity for my Bird of Paradise plant?
Strelitzias like high humidity. In a house with dry air (for example, in winter), you can increase the humidity by:
- Spraying the leaves regularly with water (note: not in direct sunlight).
- Placing a humidifier in the room.
- Placing the plant on a saucer with water and hydro granules, so that the evaporated water increases the humidity.
This helps the Strelitzia to feel comfortable and stay healthy!
- Spraying the leaves regularly with water (note: not in direct sunlight).
- Placing a humidifier in the room.
- Placing the plant on a saucer with water and hydro granules, so that the evaporated water increases the humidity.
This helps the Strelitzia to feel comfortable and stay healthy!
When should I repot my Bird of Paradise plant?
The Strelitzia grows quickly, so it is a good idea to repot it every 2-3 years to ensure that the roots have enough space to spread out. For all the information you need about repotting, read our blog.
Why is my Strelitzia growing so slowly?
If your Bird of Paradise plant is not growing quickly, this may be due to insufficient light, too much or too little water, or insufficient nutrition. Ensure that your plant receives sufficient direct sunlight (at least 4-6 hours per day) and that you adjust the watering to the seasons. It needs less water in winter. A lack of monthly fertiliser during the growing season can also prevent the plant from growing optimally.
My Strelitzia has brown spots on its leaves. What could be causing this?
Brown spots can have various causes, such as too much sun or too little water. If your plant gets too much direct sunlight, the leaves can burn, resulting in brown spots. On the other hand, excessively dry air or irregular watering can also lead to brown edges. Check the watering and make sure the humidity in the room is not too low, especially in winter when the heating often dries out the air.
Should I dust the leaves?
Dusting the plant is a good idea! It is important to wipe the leaves of your Strelitzia occasionally with a damp cloth to remove dust. This not only helps to keep the plant looking neat, but also allows it to breathe better and photosynthesise optimally. The more light the leaves can absorb, the healthier your plant will be.
Why are the leaves turning yellow?
There are several reasons why leaves may turn yellow. It could be due to too much or too little water, or a lack of nutrients. Check your watering routine and ensure that you are not overwatering the plant.
Is Strelitzia toxic to pets?
The bird of paradise plant is toxic if ingested. So be careful if you have pets or small children. The sap that comes out of the stems can also irritate the skin.
Can the Bird of Paradise plant be kept outdoors?
The Strelitzia can be kept outdoors, but only if the temperature remains above 15°C. In summer, you can safely place it outside, but beware of the wind. Place the plant in a sunny spot or ensure that it receives some shade during the hottest hours of the day.
How big does a Strelitzia grow?
Indoors, the Bird of Paradise plant can reach a height of 1.5 to 2 metres, depending on the care and light it receives. When you repot the plant, the roots will have more space and the plant will also grow taller. Make sure you give it enough space so that the plant can develop optimally.
The leaves of my Strelitzia are full of tears and irregularities
This is completely normal and is part of the nature of the Bird of Paradise plant. The plant is even known for its leaves often tearing or showing irregularities, especially as they grow larger. This happens because the leaves are often exposed to wind and other elements in their natural environment. It is a characteristic of the plant and absolutely nothing to worry about. Although it may not be the most “perfect” appearance, it is part of the exotic charm of the Bird of Paradise plant. These damages cannot really be prevented, but they do not have a negative impact on the health of the plant. So don't be distracted by the imperfections, they are part of the plant!
My Strelitzia isn't flowering. What now?
Only Strelitzia Reginae can flower, so if you have another variety such as Strelitzia Nicolai or Augusta, you won't see any flowers. If you do have a Reginae and it isn't flowering, there could be several reasons for this. Flowering requires patience and the right conditions. Make sure your plant gets at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day, as light is essential. In addition, it often takes several years before a young plant shows its iconic bird of paradise flowers. So don't give up too quickly. With the right care, flowering will come naturally.
