How to Care for Bird of Paradise

The Bird of Paradise (Strelitzia reginae and Strelitzia nicolai) is one of Australia’s most iconic ornamentals, grown for its striking flowers and bold, tropical leaves. Whether planted in the garden or in a large pot indoors, proper care is essential to achieve strong growth and spectacular blooms. This guide explains everything you need to know about Bird of Paradise care in Australia.

Light, Position & Climate

Bird of Paradise thrives in warm, sunny conditions. It can grow across most Australian climates, from temperate coastal areas to subtropical zones.

Outdoors: Choose a full sun position with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. In hot zones, some afternoon shade helps prevent leaf scorch.
Indoors: Place near a north- or east-facing window. Dark corners result in poor growth and no flowers.
Climate tolerance: Strelitzia reginae (orange Bird of Paradise) tolerates cooler conditions. Strelitzia nicolai (giant white Bird of Paradise) thrives in subtropical and tropical regions.

Tip: The more sun, the more blooms. Plants in full shade rarely flower.

491415235_18474509941069402_3840410886069438473_n

541687512_18528922564050717_9061995697077322404_n (1)

Watering, Soil & Fertiliser

Balanced water and nutrients are key to Bird of Paradise health:

Watering outdoors: Deeply water weekly in summer and during dry spells. Reduce in winter.
Watering indoors: Allow the top 5–7 cm of soil to dry between waterings. Always empty saucers.
Soil: Free-draining, fertile soil is essential. In pots, use a premium mix with added organic matter.

Fertiliser schedule:

Spring & Summer: Fertilise every 4–6 weeks with a balanced liquid fertiliser such as CompleteGrow NPK 20-20-20 for lush leaves and blooms.
Flowering boost: Use CompleteGrow 4-18-38 + CaMg to support flower spikes and strong root growth.
Winter: Reduce or pause feeding in cooler regions.

Tip: Avoid over-fertilising with nitrogen. This causes excessive foliage and reduces flowering.

503090625_18349487440157749_4386390077208229513_n (1)

488260178_18060675554475515_525347708256964922_n (1)

Pruning, Propagation & Common Problems

Bird of Paradise care doesn’t stop at watering and feeding. Regular pruning and occasional propagation will keep plants at their best.

Pruning: Remove dead leaves and spent flower stalks at the base. Heavier shaping is best in spring.
Propagation: Division is the most reliable method. Mature clumps can be split in spring or early summer.
Repotting: Every 3–4 years for potted plants, refreshing soil and upgrading container size.

Common problems:

No flowers: Usually from low light or too much nitrogen fertiliser.
Yellow leaves: Overwatering, poor drainage, or nutrient deficiency.
Splitting leaves: A natural adaptation, but worsens with low humidity indoors.
Bending stems: Weak growth from poor light or overcrowding.

FAQs

Q1: How tall do Bird of Paradise plants grow?
A: Strelitzia reginae reaches 1.5–2m, while Strelitzia nicolai can reach 6m in the right conditions.

Q2: Can Bird of Paradise grow in pots?
A: Yes. Large, heavy pots with free-draining soil are best. Plants may need repotting every few years.

Q3: Should I prune Bird of Paradise in winter?
A: Light pruning is fine anytime, but major pruning is best in spring to avoid stress.

Q4: Do Bird of Paradise plants need full sun?
A: Yes, for flowering. They survive in part shade but with fewer blooms.

Q5: How long until Bird of Paradise flowers after planting?
A: Plants grown from seed take 4–7 years. Divisions can flower in 2–3 years.