GIANT WHITE BIRD of PARADISE SEEDS (Strelitzia nicolai) Tropical Flower Plant

GIANT WHITE BIRD of PARADISE SEEDS

 (Strelitzia nicolai)

 Tropical Banana Flower Plant

This herbaceous perennial is rare in northern climates, but prevalent in gardens and on roadsides in Zones 10-12 and sometimes in warmer areas of Zone 8B as well. It can reach heights of 20′ Feet tall in the right conditions. Named for its stunning white flowers, the plant grows slowly in clumps as it’s underground stem divides, while the foliage grows in a fan-like pattern and is a species of banana plants. A healthy, mature plant can produce up to 36 flowers spikes each year. In ideal conditions, plants can bloom year-round. Flowers are produced in groups of one to three on long stalks. The seeds look extraterrestrial with wild orange fuzz on the ends as pictured above. Bird of paradise plants are also known as crane flowers, a more precise description of the shape of their blooms. The plants bloom off and on year round in suitable climates. Mature, healthy plants can produce up to 36 flower spikes a year, which will last for weeks. Once considered part of the banana family, these plants have escaped this lowly fate and now have their own family – the Strelitziaceae. These plants are low maintenance which makes them valuable for urban landscaping. They are commonly seen growing in traffic islands and in gardens in apartment complexes in California. Even better is their tendency to stay put. Unlike tree roots that will eventually lift sidewalks, bird of paradise roots do not thicken as the plants age. Bird of paradise plants grow wild among other shrubs along riverbanks in many parts of South Africa, and are important sources of nectar for birds. 

Bird of Paradise Germination:

1) Knick the seed shells with a file or small knife and soak the seeds in lukewarm water for 3 days. Change water daily.

2) Remove the bright orange tuft of hairs after you have soaked the seeds.

3) Use a heated propagator to keep a bottom heat of 85-90°F. This will help increase the germination rate and speed.

4) Seeds should be planted 1 Inch deep in moistened, high quality potting mix. Cover the pot with plastic to retain humidity and keep the soil moist. Uncover daily for a few minuntes of fresh air. The seeds should germinate in one to three months if kept moist. Be patient as with any Tropical or Exotic, germination times are always erratic. Don’t toss any early as they all have their own time as They’re well worth your wait.