Bird of Paradise is a tropical showstopper known for its striking, crane-like blooms and lush foliage. Whether you’re growing it indoors as a houseplant or outdoors in warm climates, this plant brings a dramatic, exotic flair to any space. Despite its bold appearance, Bird of Paradise is surprisingly easy to care for when given the right conditions.

Native to South Africa, this plant thrives in warm, bright environments and rewards patient growers with vibrant flowers that resemble a bird in flight. With proper care, even beginners can enjoy its elegant leaves and eye-catching blooms year-round. In this guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know to keep your Bird of Paradise healthy, happy, and blooming beautifully.

Table of Contents

Care

Keeping your Bird of Paradise thriving means understanding its basic needs—light, soil, water, temperature, and nutrition. When each of these elements is balanced, your plant will reward you with strong growth and, in time, those iconic flowers.

Light

Bird of Paradise loves bright, indirect sunlight and can even handle a few hours of direct sun each day. Indoors, place it near a sunny window—east- or west-facing is ideal. Too little light will stunt growth and prevent blooming, while too much direct afternoon sun can scorch the leaves. Rotate your plant regularly to keep its growth even on all sides.

Soil

Use a rich, well-draining potting mix. A combination of potting soil, perlite, and compost works well. If planting outdoors, choose a spot with fertile, well-aerated soil. Avoid heavy clay soils that retain too much water, as this can lead to root rot.

Water

Bird of Paradise has large, thirsty leaves, especially during active growth in spring and summer. Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy. Water deeply when the top 1–2 inches of soil feel dry. In cooler months, reduce watering to allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Brown tips often mean overwatering; yellowing edges may signal dryness.

Temperature and Humidity

This tropical plant prefers temperatures above 60°F (15°C) and doesn’t tolerate frost. It thrives in high humidity, so misting the leaves or using a humidifier can help, especially in winter. Dry air can cause browning tips and stress the plant.

Fertilizer

Bird of Paradise is a heavy feeder. During the growing season (spring through early fall), feed it every two weeks with a balanced liquid fertilizer. In early spring, you can also apply a slow-release fertilizer to boost new growth. Skip fertilizing in winter when the plant is dormant.

Placement

Indoors, place your plant in a spot that gets bright, filtered light. Near large windows is best. Outdoors, choose a sheltered location that avoids harsh midday sun and strong winds, which can tear the leaves. Avoid placing it near air vents or drafty areas.

Types

There are five known species of Bird of Paradise, but only two are commonly grown in homes and gardens. Each offers a unique look, making it easy to choose one that suits your style and space.

Strelitzia reginae (Orange Bird of Paradise)

The most recognizable variety, this plant features bold orange and blue flowers that resemble a bird in flight. It typically grows 3 to 5 feet tall, making it a popular choice for indoor growers and smaller gardens.

• ‘Glauca’: Has soft grayish-blue foliage for a cooler-toned look.
• ‘Humilis’ or ‘Pygmaea’: A dwarf version, ideal for compact spaces—reaches about 3 feet tall.
• ‘Ovata’: Offers broader, more rounded leaf blades, giving it a fuller appearance.

Strelitzia nicolai (White Bird of Paradise)

A larger, more dramatic species that can grow up to 20 feet tall outdoors, this variety produces white and dark blue flowers and has large, banana-like leaves. It’s perfect for adding a tropical statement to spacious indoor areas or sheltered outdoor locations.

Less Common Species

• Strelitzia juncea: A rare, leafless version with narrow, reed-like foliage.
• Strelitzia caudata: Known as the mountain Bird of Paradise, it can reach up to 25 feet and has white-and-blue blooms. It’s the hardest to find and grow.

While S. reginae is best for beginners, S. nicolai brings an architectural element that experienced growers love. Choose based on space, light availability, and how bold you want your plant to be.

Pruning

Regular pruning helps your Bird of Paradise look its best and grow more vigorously. While this plant doesn’t require constant trimming, removing old or damaged leaves and spent blooms keeps it tidy and encourages healthy growth.

When to Prune

The best time to prune is early spring, just before the growing season kicks off. This timing allows the plant to recover quickly and channel its energy into producing new leaves and, hopefully, flowers.

How to Prune

• Use clean, sharp tools like hand pruners or loppers. Sterilize blades before and after use to prevent spreading disease.
• Remove any dead or brown leaves at the base, cutting as close to the soil line as possible.
• Trim off faded blooms once their color dulls and the petals begin to drop—this keeps the plant looking neat and may promote new flowering.
• For larger overgrown plants, you can cut back some healthy leaves to reduce size, but avoid removing too much at once.

Tips for Success

• Don’t use hedge trimmers or tools that tear leaves—they can leave ragged edges that invite disease.
• If a leaf is only partially damaged, you can leave it in place to continue photosynthesis.
• Always make cuts at the base of the stem or at a natural junction.

With the right care, your Bird of Paradise will stay lush, vibrant, and full of life—no overgrown jungle vibes unless that’s what you’re going for!

Propagating

Propagating a Bird of Paradise can be a rewarding way to expand your plant collection or share with friends. While it’s not the fastest plant to multiply, there are two main methods: division and growing from seed. Division is quicker and more reliable, especially for home growers.

Division (Best Method)

The easiest and most effective way to propagate Bird of Paradise is by dividing a mature plant—ideally one that has bloomed at least once and is three years old or older.

How to Propagate by Division:

1. Remove the plant from its pot or garden bed gently.
2. Locate offshoots (baby plants) at the base that have at least 2–3 leaves.
3. Use a sharp knife or saw to divide the root system (rhizome). Be careful to include roots with each division.
4. Repot the new plant in a fresh, well-draining soil mix and water thoroughly.
5. Place it in a warm, bright area to reduce transplant shock.

Divided plants may take several months to show new growth, so be patient and avoid overwatering during this adjustment period.

Growing from Seed (Slower but Doable)

Growing Bird of Paradise from seed takes longer—often several years before flowering—but it can be fun if you’re in no rush.

Steps for Seed Propagation:

• Soak seeds in room-temperature water for 24–48 hours to soften the coating.
• Nick the seed coat with a knife or nail file to aid germination.
• Plant ½ to 1 inch deep in well-draining soil, spacing seeds at least 3 inches apart.
• Keep warm and humid—a heat mat or covered tray helps maintain a steady temperature around 80°F (27°C).
• Germination may take up to 2 months.

Once the seedlings develop 2–3 leaves, transplant them into individual pots. Flowering from seed-grown plants may not occur for 4–5 years.

Growing in Pots

Growing Bird of Paradise in pots is a great option for indoor gardeners or those in colder climates. As a container plant, it still reaches an impressive size and, with proper care, can thrive for years—and even bloom indoors.

Choosing the Right Pot

• Select a sturdy container with drainage holes—ceramic or terracotta pots work well for stability.
• Use a pot that’s proportional to your plant’s size. A young plant can start in a 10-inch pot; larger ones (5–6 feet tall) do well in 14-inch pots.
• Avoid oversized containers, which can hold excess moisture and lead to root rot.

Soil and Repotting

Use a well-draining potting mix rich in organic matter. A blend of potting soil, peat moss or compost, and perlite ensures good drainage.

Repot every spring until the plant reaches maturity. After that, allow the plant to become slightly pot-bound, which actually helps encourage blooming. If your plant stops growing or water runs straight through the pot, it may be root-bound and in need of repotting.

Indoor Placement Tips

• Place your Bird of Paradise near a bright window, ideally south- or west-facing.
• Avoid cold drafts and keep it away from heating or cooling vents.
• Rotate the pot weekly to encourage balanced growth on all sides.

Watering and Feeding in Containers

Container-grown Bird of Paradise dries out faster than garden plants. Check soil moisture often—water thoroughly when the top 1–2 inches feel dry. During the growing season, feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer every two weeks.

With the right conditions, your potted Bird of Paradise will bring lush greenery—and maybe even blooms—into your home.

Overwintering

If you live in a region where temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C), your Bird of Paradise will need protection during the colder months. While it’s a tropical plant that thrives in warmth and humidity, it can survive winter if properly overwintered—especially in containers.

Indoor Overwintering (Most Common)

For potted plants, the safest move is to bring them indoors before the first frost. Here’s how to make the transition smooth:

• Inspect for pests like scale or aphids before moving the plant inside.
• Trim any dead or damaged foliage to reduce stress.
• Place in a bright room near a south- or west-facing window. If natural light is limited, consider using a grow light.
• Water less frequently—about once every 7–10 days, allowing the top few inches of soil to dry out between waterings.
• Avoid fertilizing until spring, as the plant goes semi-dormant.

Indoor humidity often drops in winter. To prevent browning tips, use a humidifier or mist the leaves occasionally.

Outdoor Overwintering (Mild Climates Only)

In USDA Zones 9–11, Bird of Paradise may survive outdoors, but only with care:

• Cut the plant back to about 12 inches above the ground after the first light frost.
• Cover the base with a thick layer of mulch, followed by straw or leaf litter.
• Protect the crown with a breathable frost cloth or row cover, secured to prevent wind damage.

Once temperatures rise consistently above 50°F (10°C) in spring, uncover the plant to encourage new growth.

Overwintering takes some effort, but it allows your Bird of Paradise to rebound quickly come spring—ready for another season of bold, tropical growth.

Common Pests and Diseases

While Bird of Paradise is generally hardy, it’s not immune to pests or disease—especially when grown indoors or in humid, crowded conditions. Keeping an eye on your plant’s health will help catch problems early and keep it looking its best.

Pests to Watch For

1. Aphids – These tiny bugs cluster around new growth and undersides of leaves, sucking sap and leaving behind sticky residue.
2. Scale Insects – Hard-shelled or fuzzy-looking spots that cling to stems and leaf bases. They can weaken the plant over time.
3. Whiteflies – Small, flying pests that often appear in warm, dry indoor conditions.

Treatment Tips:

• Spray with insecticidal soap or a mix of water and mild dish soap.
• Wipe down leaves with a damp cloth to remove pests manually.
• For severe infestations, a systemic insecticide may be necessary—especially for scale.

Diseases to Watch For

1. Root Rot – Caused by overwatering or poor drainage. Symptoms include wilting, brown leaf tips, or a foul smell from the soil.
2. Botrytis (Gray Mold) – A fungal disease that causes dark spots followed by fuzzy gray mold on leaves or flowers.
3. Leaf Spot – Yellow or brown spots may appear from fungal issues, often linked to poor airflow or wet leaves.

Prevention & Care:

• Ensure proper drainage in pots and let the top few inches of soil dry out before watering again.
• Prune off any affected leaves or flowers immediately.
• Increase air circulation and avoid misting late in the day.

Routine inspection and fast action can help prevent most pest and disease issues. Healthy Bird of Paradise plants are naturally more resistant and recover quickly with the right care.

Bloom

One of the most rewarding moments for any gardener is seeing a Bird of Paradise in full bloom. But this tropical beauty isn’t quick to flower—it requires maturity, patience, and just the right conditions to produce its signature crane-like blooms.

When Do They Bloom?

Most Bird of Paradise plants begin blooming once they are 4 to 5 years old. Even with proper care, young plants won’t flower until they’ve reached a certain size and root development.

• Typical bloom season: Late winter through early summer, especially March to May.
• In tropical climates or controlled indoor environments, blooming may happen year-round.

What Do the Flowers Look Like?

The classic Strelitzia reginae produces vibrant orange and blue flowers that resemble a bird’s head, giving the plant its name. Strelitzia nicolai, the white variety, offers elegant white and dark blue blooms that are equally striking, though often larger and more architectural.

How to Encourage Blooming

If your Bird of Paradise isn’t blooming, it may not be getting the environment it needs. Try the following:

• Keep it pot-bound: Plants bloom better when slightly root-bound. Don’t rush to repot unless truly necessary.
• Provide ample sunlight: Aim for at least 6 hours of bright, direct light daily. Insufficient light is the #1 reason for lack of blooms.
• Feed consistently: During the growing season, fertilize every 2 weeks with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer.
• Maintain warm temps: Keep temperatures above 60°F (15°C) at all times.
• Avoid overwatering: Water deeply but infrequently, letting the top few inches of soil dry out.

With proper care and a little patience, your Bird of Paradise will eventually reward you with its dazzling, bird-like blooms—well worth the wait.

Common Issues

Even with the best care, your Bird of Paradise might occasionally show signs of stress. Thankfully, most problems are easy to diagnose and fix if caught early. Here are the most frequent issues gardeners face—and how to address them.

Root Rot

Symptoms: Wilting, mushy stems, browning leaves, and a sour smell from the soil.
Cause: Overwatering or poor drainage.

Solution:

• Remove the plant from its pot.
• Trim off any blackened or mushy roots.
• Repot in fresh, well-draining soil and a clean container.
• Let the soil dry out between waterings in the future.

Curling Leaves

Symptoms: Leaves folding inward or becoming tightly rolled.
Cause: Underwatering or very dry indoor air.

Solution:

• Increase watering frequency during hot months.
• Mist the plant or use a humidifier to boost air moisture.
• Water deeply to ensure roots are hydrated.

Yellowing Leaves

Symptoms: Leaves turning pale or yellow, starting from the outer edges.
Cause: Overwatering, underwatering, or lack of nutrients.

Solution:

• Check soil moisture—adjust watering as needed.
• Use a balanced fertilizer every 2–4 weeks during the growing season.
• Ensure the plant is getting enough light and isn’t sitting in soggy soil.

Leaf Splits or Tears

Symptoms: Long splits along the leaf blades.
Cause: Natural adaptation or exposure to wind/drafts.

Solution:

• Understand that some splitting is normal—it helps the plant survive in windy environments.
• Reduce direct air movement (like from fans or vents) around indoor plants.

Most issues with Bird of Paradise come from improper watering or light conditions, and the plant often rebounds quickly once conditions are corrected.

FAQ

Is Bird of Paradise easy to grow?

Yes—once established, Bird of Paradise is relatively low-maintenance. It thrives with regular watering, consistent light, and occasional feeding. It’s one of the more forgiving tropical plants for indoor gardeners.

How long does it take to flower?

Most Bird of Paradise plants take 4 to 5 years to mature before producing their first blooms. Keeping the plant slightly root-bound, well-fed, and in bright light helps encourage flowering.

Can Bird of Paradise live outdoors?

Yes, in USDA Zones 9–11, Bird of Paradise can grow outdoors year-round. In colder climates, it should be brought indoors before frost or overwintered with protection.

Why are my leaves turning brown at the tips?

Brown tips are often a sign of overwatering, low humidity, or mineral buildup. Adjust watering habits, increase humidity, and flush the soil occasionally to remove salts.

How big will it get indoors?

Indoors, Strelitzia reginae typically grows 3–5 feet tall, while Strelitzia nicolai can reach 6–8 feet or more with proper care and space.

Is Bird of Paradise toxic to pets?

Yes. All parts of the plant are toxic to cats and dogs if ingested. Keep it out of reach of curious pets.

Conclusion

Whether grown indoors or outside in a warm climate, Bird of Paradise adds a striking tropical vibe to any space. With its bold foliage and signature crane-like flowers, it’s both architectural and elegant. While it takes time to bloom, the payoff is well worth the patience. Give your plant the light, water, warmth, and care it craves, and it will thrive for years—bringing a touch of the exotic right to your home or garden.

🌿 Love gardening inspiration? Follow me on Pinterest for bold plant ideas, tips, and seasonal color!