Strelitzia Reginae (Bird Of Paradise)

• Native to South Africa, this regal plant symbolises freedom and magnificence with its crane-like flowers. It's South Africa's national flower.
• Mature plants can take 4-5 years to produce their first spectacular orange and blue flowers. Indoor plants rarely flower due to space constraints.
• The large paddle-shaped leaves naturally split in windy conditions to prevent damage. This splitting is completely normal and healthy.
• Beloved for its architectural form and tropical appearance, making any space feel like an exotic resort destination.

• Water weekly in summer when top soil feels dry, reducing to fortnightly in winter. Always check soil moisture before watering.
• Position in bright, indirect light indoors or morning sun with afternoon shade outdoors. Avoid direct midday sun.
• Use well-draining potting mix with added perlite or bark. Ensure pots have drainage holes to prevent waterlogging.
• Feed monthly with liquid fertiliser during spring and summer growing season. Reduce to bi-monthly in autumn and winter.
• Prune dead or damaged leaves at soil level using clean secateurs. Remove spent flower stalks after blooming.
• Maintain 50-60% humidity with pebble trays or humidifiers, especially during dry Australian summers and heated winter indoors.

• Provide bright, indirect light indoors or filtered morning sun outdoors. Direct afternoon sun can scorch the large leaves.
• Water when the top 2-3cm of soil feels dry, typically weekly in summer and fortnightly in winter. Empty saucer after 30 minutes.
• Maintain humidity around 50-60% using a humidifier or pebble tray. Mist around the plant but not directly on leaves.
• Keep temperatures between 18-24°C year-round. Protect from cold drafts and temperatures below 15°C.
• Rotate weekly for even growth and wipe leaves monthly to maintain their glossy appearance.

• Scale insects can attach to leaves and stems, causing yellowing and sticky honeydew. Wipe leaves with rubbing alcohol or apply horticultural oil spray.
• Brown leaf tips indicate low humidity or fluoride in tap water. Increase humidity with a pebble tray and use filtered or rainwater when possible.
• Root rot from overwatering causes yellowing lower leaves and mushy stems. Reduce watering frequency and ensure excellent drainage.
• Spider mites appear in dry conditions, creating fine webbing on leaves. Increase humidity and spray with neem oil solution.