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Bird of paradise

Bird of paradise

Strelitzia

DifficultyVery easy
SeasonYear-round
Cut flowersLasts 2-3 weeks in a vase

Meaning

Freedom, happiness, easy confidence

Shaped like a bird in flight, and very long-lasting. One stem already has presence.

The seeds and fruit are mildly toxic to cats and dogs. Don't let pets chew on them.

Light

Bright, indirect light

Water

Change the water every 3 days

Temperature

15-25°C

Preservative

Not needed

Do this when you get home

  1. Cut the stem on a slant, 3 cm. It's hard, so a knife works well.
  2. Use a taller, heavier vase. The head is heavy and tips easily.

Day to day

  • Change the water about every 3 days
  • One "bird head" hides several florets. When the first fades, gently tease the next one out with your fingers.

Common questions

Only one floret opened and then it stopped?

Gently pull the next floret out of the bract with your fingers. It will keep opening.

Plant doctor

More cut flowers

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PetalPal

Reminders and a care diary live in the app

Get a nudge when it’s time to water or change the vase water, and keep a diary for each plant, in the PetalPal app. Search “PetalPal” on the App Store or Google Play.