White bird of paradise Strelitzia nicolai

This big tropical plant is a distant relative of the banana plant, though it’s easier to look after than its relation. The white bird of paradise can grow to 2m (6½ft) tall, even indoors. It has large, distinctive, grey-green leaves and can be fast-growing. In fact, it’s not unusual for it to grow 10–15cm (4–6in) for each new leaf it puts out. The leaves of the white bird of paradise are brittle and tear easily, like those of the banana plant. This is nature’s way of helping it withstand strong winds. I think it helps to give it even more of a tropical and decorative look. If you have an outdoor area or a balcony, this is a plant that likes to spend the warmer months outdoors.

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A light-loving plant, the white bird of paradise does well in good light conditions, though avoid prolonged periods in scorching sunlight. The ideal location is in a room close to an east- or west-facing window.

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It likes fairly moist soil, but make sure that the top layer of soil (a few centimetres/about 1in) dries out between each watering. During spring and summer, water a few times a week. You could also use a damp cloth to wipe the leaves at regular intervals.

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Use ordinary potting compost with a layer of leca balls in the bottom. You can also mix a few leca balls into the compost to ensure good drainage.

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Feed with liquid organic plant food ideally every other week during the spring and summer.

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The white bird of paradise is native to South Africa, Madagascar and nearby countries in Africa.

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Frequency of repotting will be dependent on how quickly the plant grows. During the first years, you can expect to have to repot each year, and then every other year. Side shoots can be separated off fairly easily, but not until the new plant has formed two or three leaves. If your white bird of paradise has extremely good growing conditions, it might produce exotic flowers that are reminiscent of a bird of paradise in flight. Note that it is mildly toxic to children and pets.

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