Strelitzia, plant care and growing guide
Strelitzia (Strelitzia sp.) – also called the “Bird of paradise flower”, is a tropical plant, evergreen, native to South Africa. The plant grows in the form of a rich bush and can reach heights of up to 2 meters.
Strelitzia is unique due to the rich foliage and shape of the flowers. The leaves are oval-elliptical, large, like the ones of banana trees, and start at the base of the plant. The flowers are brightly colored, clustered in numbers of 5-10 in a hull-like inflorescence, and the unique shape is reminiscent of the semblance of a tropical bird of the same name. The root is fleshy and has the appearance of rhizomes.
Species and varieties
There are about 6 species of Strelitzia. The most common are:
- Strelitzia reginae: it is the most widespread. The leaves are stiff, elongated, blue-green. The flowers are brightly colored, with bright blue petals and orange sepals
- Strelitzia nicolai: it has larger, greenish-gray leaves. The flowers are composed of white sepals and blue petals and have a blue-purple “hull”.
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Environmental conditions
Light. It is a light-loving plant, which needs direct sunlight to grow and bloom. It is recommended to place it near a window with southern exposure. However, during the summer, the plant must be protected from direct sunlight, which can cause burns to young leaves.
Temperature. The optimum temperature for growth and development varies between 25-30° C. Temperatures below 15° C can affect the plant.
Humidity. Strelitzia prefers high atmospheric humidity (70-80%). If the air is dry, it is recommended to spray the leaves regularly with non-calcareous water. Regular spraying also helps remove dust that settles on the leaves.
Substrate. It grows best in a nutrient-rich substrate, with a pH of 6.5-7, permeable, allowing easy drainage of water. A universal potted plant mix can be used. It is important that the pots have holes for drainage, to avoid water stagnation at the root.
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Watering
During the hot months, it is recommended that watering be done regularly, keeping the substrate moist (but not too wet). Starting in autumn, the frequency of watering should be gradually reduced, so that the substrate dries slightly before you water the plant again.
Fertilization
During the growing season, it needs regular fertilization with specific fertilizers.
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Repotting
Strelitzia requires annual repotts, done in spring.
Propagation
Strelitzia can be propagated by dividing the bush (in spring) and less often through seeds. The dividing of the bush must be done carefully, so as not to damage the fleshy and fragile roots.
Pruning
Damaged or withered leaves can be carefully removed as they appear. They have to be removed from the base of the plant with sharp garden shears.
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Diseases and pests
Strelitzia can be affected by gray mold, in conditions of excessive moisture. Among the pests, the most common are aphids (which can cause sooty mold ), mites, thrips, mealybugs, and European fruit lecanium.
In addition
- it is a plant which thrives in a warm and humid greenhouse, and in order to bloom, it needs optimal conditions of temperature, light and humidity;
- excessive moisture in the substrate causes root rot;
- if swallowed, parts of the plant are toxic to dogs and cats.