Strelitzia Reginae Mandela's Gold

• Originally from coastal South Africa, this special cultivar honours Nelson Mandela with golden-tinted blooms that distinguish it from standard Bird of Paradise varieties. The name reflects both beauty and historical significance.
• Mature plants can reach 1.5-2 metres tall with paddle-shaped leaves that may split naturally in windy conditions. This splitting prevents wind damage and is completely normal.
• Flowers typically appear on plants over 4-5 years old, emerging as spectacular orange and blue bird-like blooms from distinctive boat-shaped bracts. Patience is rewarded with these magnificent displays.
• Popular with Australian gardeners for its architectural form and exotic appeal, bringing a taste of the tropics to temperate gardens and indoor spaces.

• Water deeply when top 2cm of soil is dry, typically weekly in summer and fortnightly in winter - ensure excellent drainage to prevent root rot. Use lukewarm water to avoid shocking roots.
• Position in bright, filtered light indoors or morning sun with afternoon protection outdoors - 6+ hours of bright light encourages flowering. Avoid harsh afternoon sun in Australian summers.
• Plant in well-draining potting mix with added perlite or bark chips - heavy clay soils will cause root problems. Ensure containers have drainage holes.
• Feed with balanced liquid fertiliser monthly during spring and summer, reducing to quarterly in autumn and winter. Dilute to half strength to prevent root burn.
• Remove dead leaves and spent flowers at the base with clean secateurs - wear gloves as sap can be irritating. Avoid pruning healthy green foliage.
• Maintain humidity with pebble trays or grouping with other plants, especially important during dry Australian winters with indoor heating.

• Provide bright, indirect light indoors or morning sun with afternoon shade outdoors - too much direct sun can scorch leaves. Rotate weekly for even growth.
• Water when top 2cm of soil feels dry, allowing excess to drain completely - waterlogged soil causes root problems. Reduce watering in winter months.
• Maintain humidity above 50% with pebble trays or humidifiers, especially during Australian summer. Mist around the plant but not directly on leaves.
• Keep temperatures between 18-24°C year-round and protect from cold draughts. Bring potted plants indoors if temperatures drop below 10°C.
• Feed monthly with liquid fertiliser during growing season from spring to early autumn - reduce to quarterly in winter.

• Scale insects can attach to leaves and stems - wipe with rubbing alcohol or apply horticultural oil. Check regularly under leaves and along stems.
• Brown leaf tips indicate low humidity or fluoride in tap water - increase humidity and use filtered water. Trim brown tips with clean scissors.
• Root rot from overwatering causes yellowing leaves and musty soil smell - reduce watering and improve drainage. Repot if roots are black and mushy.
• Spider mites appear in dry conditions causing stippled leaves - increase humidity and spray with water. Use insecticidal soap for severe infestations.