🌱 Care Level – Moderate: Bird of Paradise (Strelitzia reginae) requires some attention, especially in terms of light and watering, but is generally hardy.
🐾 Pet-Friendly – Warning: Toxic to pets if ingested. Can cause mild to severe digestive distress. Keep away from animals.
☀️ Light – Bright: Needs bright, indirect sunlight. Direct sunlight is fine too, but too little light will prevent it from flowering.
💧 Water – Regular: Water thoroughly and allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings. Reduce watering in winter.
🌫️ Humidity – Moderate: Prefers some humidity but is quite tolerant of average home humidity levels.
🌡️ Temperature – Warm: Ideal temperatures are between 65-70°F (18-21°C). Avoid temperatures below 50°F (10°C).
🌍 Hardiness Zones – 10-12: Can be grown outdoors in these zones. In colder climates, it’s a popular indoor plant.
🌿 Fertilizing – Regular: Fertilize every two weeks in spring and summer with a balanced fertilizer. Reduce in fall and winter.
🪴 Re-potting – Every 2-3 Years: Re-pot when the roots are crowded, typically every 2-3 years. Use a well-draining soil mix.
🧹 Cleaning – Occasional: Wipe leaves with a damp cloth to remove dust and enhance the plant’s appearance.
🌱 Propagation – Division: Propagate by dividing the root clump, ideally during re-potting.
🌎 Origin – South Africa: Native to South Africa, this plant is named for its spectacular flowers, which resemble a bird in flight.