giant bird-of-paradise flower (Strelitzia nicolai) — identification, habitat & look-alikes

The giant bird-of-paradise flower is a tall plant native to southern Africa, with broad, banana-like leaves and white and blue flowers. In the United States, it is grown in warm gardens or as a large houseplant. It is also called white bird of paradise.

Appearance

Growth form: Several trunklike stems grow together; in its native habitat, plants can reach 20–30 ft (6–9 m).
Leaves: The broad leaves can reach about 6.5 ft (2 m) long and may split along their veins in wind.
Flowers: White and blue flowers emerge from a dark, boat-shaped .
Fruit: Woody pods hold black seeds with bright orange fleshy coverings.

Look-alikes

common bird-of-paradise flowerStrelitzia reginae

The common species forms lower clumps and has orange and blue flowers. This giant species develops tall stems and has white and blue flowers.

Why they get mixed upBoth have broad paddle-shaped leaves and birdlike blooms.

Where it lives

Typical habitats: Warm climate gardens
Large indoor rooms
Range: It is native to southern Africa. In the United States it is grown as an ornamental in warm places, including South Florida.

Growing it

Care: It grows outdoors in 10–11. Give it a roomy site with well-drained soil.
Propagation: Established clumps can be divided, and the plant can also be grown from seed.

Conservation

IUCN Red List: NENot EvaluatedNot yet assessed

Culture and stories

Culture and stories: The name white bird of paradise refers to its pale flowers.

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