Bird of Paradise Strelitzia reginae
At a glance
- Light
- Bright indirect
- 15000–30000 lux
- Water
- Every 7–10 days
- Top 3cm of soil
- Humidity
- 50–70%
- Temperature
- 18–30°C
- Ideal 21–27°C
- Soil pH
- 5.5–7.5
- well-draining
- Mature size
- 180 cm tall
- 100 cm wide
- Native to
- South Africa, Eastern Cape
- Growth
- Moderate
- Upright
Watering calculator
Estimate how often to water your Bird of Paradise based on pot size, light, and season.
Always check the top 2 cm of soil before watering. Calculator output is an estimate, not a schedule.
Diagnose a problem
Click an issue to see causes and fixes for Bird of Paradise.
Compare with similar plants
| Trait | Bird of Paradise Strelitzia reginae | Fiddle Leaf Fig Ficus lyrata |
|---|---|---|
| Light | Bright indirect | Bright indirect |
| Water | 7–10 days | 7–10 days |
| Pet safe | Toxic to cats and dogs | Toxic to cats and dogs |
| Difficulty | Moderate | Challenging |
| Mature size | 180 cm | 250 cm |
Light requirements in detail
Bird of Paradise prefers bright indirect (15000–30000 lux) . Direct sun for at least a few hours daily encourages flowering indoors
A spot 1–2 meters from a bright east or south-facing window usually fits this range. Direct afternoon sun through unfiltered glass can scorch leaves; sheer curtains help diffuse it.
Watering in detail
Water Bird of Paradise every 7– 10 days during the growing season, allowing Top 3cm of soil to dry between waterings. Reduce frequency in winter when growth slows.
Consistent moisture matters here — long dry spells will show up as crispy leaf edges.
