Quick Answers
Yes, you can buy a bird of paradise plant. Bird of paradise plants are available for purchase at many plant nurseries, garden centers, and online retailers. They make excellent houseplants and can also be grown outdoors in tropical and subtropical climates. While beautiful, bird of paradise plants do require some specific care in terms of sunlight, water, humidity, and temperature in order to thrive. With the right conditions, bird of paradise makes an exotic, eye-catching addition to any indoor or outdoor space.
Appearance of Bird of Paradise Plants
Bird of paradise plants belong to the plant genus Strelitzia, which is named after the Queen of Hanover. There are five main types of Strelitzia plants:
Strelitzia reginae (Queen Strelitzia)
This is the classic orange and blue bird of paradise flower. It has broad leaves and large, vibrant flowers that resemble an exotic bird. The flowers sit atop long stems and consist of three brilliant orange sepals and three powder blue petals.
Strelitzia nicolai (Giant White Bird of Paradise)
True to its name, this variety has enormous leaves and large white flowers. The flowers lack the colorful “beak” of traditional bird of paradise blooms. The flowers sit atop a stem surrounded by the bold, paddle-shaped leaves.
Strelitzia juncea (Narrow-Leaf Bird of Paradise)
As the name suggests, this bird of paradise has long, narrow leaves. The flowers are a mix of white, blue, and orange. It is a smaller, bushier plant compared to other varieties.
Strelitzia caudata (Mountain Bird of Paradise)
This is a rare variety with twisted, beak-shaped orange and blue flowers. The leaves are broad like the classic S. reginae.
Strelitzia parvifolia (Dwarf Bird of Paradise)
A compact variety that reaches just 3-4 feet tall. It has typical bird of paradise flowers in orange and blue.
While the flowers differ somewhat between types, all bird of paradise plants have large, paddle-shaped leaves that emerge directly from the ground in a clumping habit. The leaves may be 1-3 feet long depending on variety. Mature plants can reach up to 6-20 feet in height.
Ideal Conditions for Growing Bird of Paradise
Bird of paradise plants originate from South Africa. They thrive in warm environments and require specific care. Here are the optimal growing conditions:
Sunlight
Bright, direct light is essential. Place bird of paradise in a south or west facing window where it will receive at least 4 hours of direct sun daily. Outdoors, choose a spot with sun exposure throughout most of the day.
Temperature
Indoors, daytime temps of 65-75°F (18-24°C) and 60-70°F (15-21°C) at night are ideal. The plants can tolerate slightly cooler temperatures at night but growth may slow. Outdoors, they need warm temperatures above 60°F (15°C).
Water
Water thoroughly so the soil is moist but not saturated. Allow the top inch or two of soil to dry out between waterings. Humidity around 50-60% is ideal. Mist the plant regularly or use a pebble tray.
Soil
Rich, loose, well-draining potting mix with compost or peat moss. Outdoor plants need fast-draining soil.
How to Care for a Bird of Paradise Plant
Caring for a bird of paradise plant involves providing the right growing conditions described above, as well as these general care tips:
Light
Rotate the plant periodically so all sides receive sufficient sun. Wipe dust from the leaves to maximize light exposure. Shelter outdoor plants from intense midday sun in summer.
Water
Water when the top few inches of soil feel dry. Add enough water so it drains freely from the drainage holes. Allow all excess water to drain immediately after watering.
Temperature
Keep the plant around 70°F (21°C) during the day and above 60°F (15°C) at night. Move the plant outdoors in summer if desired. Bring plants back indoors before temps drop below 60°F (15°C).
Humidity
Mist the plant daily or place on a pebble tray with water. Use a humidifier during dry winter months to maintain 40-50% humidity.
Fertilizer
Fertilize every 2-3 weeks in the spring and summer with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted by half. Stop fertilizing in fall and winter.
Pruning
Remove dead leaves and spent flower stems. Cut back overgrown leaves and stems to shape the plant as needed.
Repotting
Repot young plants annually in the spring. Mature plants only need repotting every 2-3 years. Use a pot just one size larger than the current container.
Where to Buy a Bird of Paradise Plant
Here are some of the best places to buy a live bird of paradise plant for your home or garden:
Local Nurseries and Garden Centers
Check independent plant nurseries and well-stocked garden stores in your area. Many carry a selection of bird of paradise plants in various sizes. This allows you to hand select the healthiest plant.
Big Box Stores
Retailers like Home Depot, Lowe’s, Costco, and Walmart often stock smaller starter plants in their garden department. Selection is limited but the plants are affordable.
Online Mail Order
Websites like Bloomscape, The Sill, and Plantopia offer a wide selection of bird of paradise plants available for shipment directly to your door. Order young plants or larger, mature specimens up to 6 feet tall.
| Retailer | Price Range |
|---|---|
| Local nurseries | $40-150 |
| Home Depot | $40-70 |
| Bloomscape | $80-260 |
| The Sill | $68-98 |
Common Problems with Bird of Paradise Plants
Bird of paradise plants are prone to a few common issues:
Leaf Spot and Leaf Blight
Small brown spots on the leaves caused by fungal disease. Can lead to yellowing, wilting, and defoliation if untreated. Usually the result of overwatering or high humidity. Improve air circulation and reduce watering frequency. Use a fungicide if severe.
Root Rot
Caused by overwatering. Roots turn black and mushy and the plant wilts. Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings and reduce watering frequency.
Mealybugs
Small white cottony insects that leave sticky residue on the leaves. Wipe away with a cotton swab dipped in alcohol or use neem oil.
Aphids
Green, yellow, black, or white tiny bugs that cluster on new growth and leaves. Rinse the plant with water or spray insecticidal soap.
Flower Bud Drop
Failure of flower buds to open. Usually due to insufficient sunlight, low humidity, or incorrect temperature.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do bird of paradise plants live?
Indoors, a bird of paradise can live for up to 20-50 years with proper care. Outdoors in tropical climates, they may live up to 50 years or longer.
Do bird of paradise plants bloom all year?
No, they bloom at certain times of year based on the variety. S. reginae blooms in late winter and spring. S. nicolai blooms in summer. Others bloom in fall and winter. Providing optimal care encourages the most prolific flowering.
Are bird of paradise plants poisonous to pets?
No, bird of paradise plants are non-toxic to both cats and dogs according to the ASPCA. They are safe for homes with pets.
How big do bird of paradise plants get?
It depends on the variety, but they range from 3 feet for dwarf types up to 20 feet tall for giant white bird of paradise. Most indoor varieties reach 4-6 feet tall at maturity.
Should I mist my bird of paradise plant daily?
Misting can help provide additional humidity, especially in dry environments. However, it is not mandatory to mist bird of paradise daily as long as you use other methods to maintain 40-50% ambient humidity around the plant.
Conclusion
With their vibrant, tropical blooms in orange, blue, and white, bird of paradise plants provide unique, architectural drama indoors and out. They require warm temperatures, abundant sunlight, high humidity, and fast-draining soil to thrive. With the right care, these eye-catching flowering plants can live for decades, providing exotic beauty and a taste of the tropics in any environment. Bird of paradise plants can be purchased from nurseries, garden centers, big box stores, or online retailers and make impressive statement plants in pools, patios, entryways, living rooms, or conservatories.
