Strelitzia, also known as bird of paradise, comes as the white bird of paradise (nicolai and augusta) and as reginae with orange flowers. We sell it from 70 cm to 2.5 metres tall, for a bright spot.
The Strelitzia nicolai, the white bird of paradise, is the largest of the three. It grows long stalks with big, paddle-shaped leaves that look like those of a banana plant. It grows mainly upwards and suits a room with a high ceiling. This is the species you see most often in interiors.
The Strelitzia Augusta is also sold as Strelitzia alba. It is another white bird of paradise with large leaves. As a multi-stem there are several stems in one pot, so the plant looks full and wide right away. The Strelitzia reginae has smaller leaves and stays more compact. This is the bird of paradise flower with the well-known orange and blue blooms.
Which size suits your space
The plants in this collection go up to 250 cm. A nicolai between 100 and 150 cm looks great next to a sofa or in a bright corner. From 190 cm the plant becomes a real eye-catcher. The XXL versions of 225 and 250 cm come in pots up to ø50 cm and need plenty of room. Keep in mind that the leaves also fan out sideways. We measure height from the bottom of the pot to the tallest leaf. Looking for something smaller? Also take a look at the medium plants up to 150 cm.
Want several large plants at once? There is a value bundle with a 200 cm Kentia, a 225 cm Strelitzia nicolai and a 200 cm Areca.
Light, water and care
A Strelitzia wants plenty of light. A spot close to a large window is ideal, and it handles a few hours of sun well if it can get used to it gradually. With too little light it grows slowly and the leaves stay small. Keep the potting soil lightly moist in summer and let the top layer dry out in between. Water less in winter.
Splits in the leaves of a nicolai are normal. In the wild the leaves tear in the wind so they do not snap off. Wipe the large leaves with a damp cloth now and then. You will find more tips in our Strelitzia care guide.
Delivery
Delivery within the Netherlands is free from €99. If your plant is damaged on the way, send us a photo and we will send you a new one free of charge. Every Strelitzia comes in a nursery pot, and you can pick a decorative pot separately.
The Strelitzia reginae usually only flowers once the plant is a few years old and gets plenty of light. A cooler period in winter helps trigger flowering. The white birds of paradise, nicolai and Augusta, rarely flower indoors. You buy those mainly for their large leaves.
Why are the leaves of my Strelitzia splitting?
On the Strelitzia nicolai and Augusta the leaves naturally split along the veins. In the wild this helps them catch less wind. Indoors it happens through touching, moving the plant or dry air. It is not a sign of disease. You can cut off old, badly damaged leaves at the base.
What is the difference between Strelitzia nicolai and Augusta?
Both are white birds of paradise with large, banana-like leaves, and they look very much alike. In the trade, Augusta is often used as a name for Strelitzia alba. We also sell the Augusta as a multi-stem, with several stems in one pot for a fuller plant.
Can a Strelitzia go outside?
In summer a Strelitzia can stand on a sheltered, bright patio. Let it acclimatise in the shade for a few days first, otherwise the leaves will scorch. Bring it back inside as soon as the nights turn cold. It cannot survive frost.
How often should you water a Strelitzia?
In summer, water as soon as the top few centimetres of potting soil are dry, often once a week. In winter, once every two to three weeks is usually enough. Do not let the plant sit in a layer of water, or the roots may start to rot.
How big does a Strelitzia get indoors?
Indoors a Strelitzia grows 1 to 3 metres tall, depending on the species. The nicolai grows on to 2 to 3 metres, the Augusta to around 2 to 2.5 metres and the reginae stays more compact at around 1 to 1.5 metres. At XXLplant our Strelitzias already start at an impressive size.
Does a Strelitzia flower indoors?
Yes, a Strelitzia can flower indoors, especially the reginae. With enough light and good care, the reginae usually produces its well-known orange bird of paradise flowers after 5 to 8 years. The nicolai and Augusta rarely or never flower indoors and owe their appeal to their impressive leaves.
Is a Strelitzia toxic to pets?
Yes, according to the ASPCA the Strelitzia is mildly toxic to cats and dogs. If eaten, the plant can cause stomach and intestinal upset. Place the plant somewhere safe, or choose other plants if you are unsure.
How much light does a Strelitzia need?
A Strelitzia needs a lot of light, at least a few hours of direct or bright indirect sunlight a day to stay large and healthy. Ideally place it close to a south, south-west or west-facing window, so the leaves can unfurl fully.
How often should I water my Strelitzia?
A Strelitzia needs water about once a week in summer and once every ten to fourteen days in winter. Only water when the top 2 to 3 centimetres of soil feel dry. Too little is better than too much, because soggy roots lead to root rot.
