Got a spot that needs a splash of the tropics? The Bird of Paradise is 100% your plant, then. With its big, bold leaves and stunning, bird-like flowers, it's a showstopper. You may think it’s somewhat capricious, but don’t worry! Taking care of it isn’t as tough as it might look. Besides, in this quick guide, we’ve put together everything you need to know about the bird of paradise plant indoor care to keep this exotic beauty thriving.
Meet a Bird of Paradise
The Bird of Paradise, or Strelitzia reginae, hails from South Africa and is a real crowd-pleaser with its glossy, banana-shaped leaves and striking orange and blue blooms. In the wild, these plants can grow up to 20 feet tall! In your home, they’ll probably stay smaller but still make a big statement. And they're not just pretty. They're also pretty hardy, making them a favorite in homes and gardens worldwide.
How to Care for a Bird of Paradise
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Let’s break down the care essentials so you can keep your bird of paradise houseplant looking its best.
Light
These plants are sun lovers. They need bright, indirect light to really thrive. A spot near a window that gets filtered sunlight most of the day is ideal. Direct sunlight can be a bit too much and burn the leaves, so if you see signs of scorching, pull it back from the window or use a sheer curtain as a buffer.
Water
During the spring and summer, keep the soil moist but not soggy. Check the top inch of soil. If it feels dry, it’s time to water. In the fall and winter, you can ease up a bit since the plant's growth slows down. Overwatering can kill it, especially in cooler weather, so let the soil dry out a bit more between waterings.
Humidity
The birds of paradise potted plant craves humidity. If your home is on the dry side, give it a humidity boost with a humidifier or by misting the leaves now and then. This helps mimic its natural environment and keeps those leaves lush and green.
Temperature
Keep it cozy. Bird of Paradise plants prefer temperatures between 65-70°F (18-21°C) during the day and no colder than 50°F (10°C) at night. They’re not fans of the cold, so keep them away from drafty windows in the winter.
Soil
Go for well-draining soil. A mix that includes peat, sand, and loam works well because it holds moisture but also lets excess water drain away. This prevents the roots from sitting in water, which can cause rot.
Fertilizing
To keep your Bird of Paradise healthy and growing, fertilize it during the growing season (spring through summer) with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every month. Reduce feeding to once every other month in the fall and skip fertilizing entirely in the winter when the plant’s growth naturally slows down.
Pruning
Regularly prune your Bird of Paradise to remove any old or yellowing leaves. Use clean, sharp scissors or gardening shears to make clean cuts.
Repotting
Bird of Paradise plants typically need to be repotted every two to three years to prevent them from becoming root-bound and to refresh the soil. Choose a pot that’s slightly larger than the current one. This is also a great opportunity to check the roots.
Key Challenges
Even with the best care, you might run into a couple of hitches:
- Pests
Keep an eye out for spider mites and scale. These pests love dry conditions, so maintaining humidity not only makes your plant happy but also gives it protection. If you do spot pests on your beautiful white bird of paradise indoor plant, treat the latter with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Flowering Issues
If you’re hoping to see those spectacular flowers, you'll need patience. Indoors, Birds of Paradise can be reluctant to bloom. They need plenty of light and sometimes just the right amount of stress, like being slightly root-bound. If you’ve had your plant for a few years and still have no flowers, consider repotting or adjusting its light and feeding.
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With these tips, you’re well on your way to becoming a pro at caring for this stunning plant. And if you need one to start with or any other floral beauties, check out Art Flowers. Order online, call at +1(310)817-0605, or stop by the shop. There’s same-day delivery and free delivery within four miles.
