Birds of Paradise are a type of tropical bird, which necessitates more space for them to live in. They usually require an aviary or outdoor enclosure with lots of space to fly and roam. Since they are tropical, they also require climates of high humidity and adequate temperature regulation in order to remain healthy.
While some species can be kept in cages, many will not stay small when kept in captivity. In general, it is not recommended to attempt to keep Birds of Paradise small due to their specific needs, as they live much happier and healthier lives in space, with appropriate temperatures and habitats.
Are there different sizes of bird of paradise plants?
Yes, there are different sizes of bird of paradise plants. The genus Strelitzia, which includes the species commonly referred to as the bird of paradise, can grow anywhere from 2 to 15 feet in height and width and can reach up to 26 feet in ideal conditions.
The species Strelitzia reginae is the most commonly seen houseplant and usually only grows to between 2 and 4 feet when kept indoors. However, when planted in the garden, with the right soil and moisture, this species can grow up to 6 feet in height and width.
The species S. reginae “giant bird of paradise” is known to quickly reach 15 feet or more under the right conditions. Other species of Strelitzia, like S. nicolai, can also reach large sizes, growing to 20 feet or more in height.
How often should you water bird of paradise?
You should water bird of paradise plants about once a week. They do best with a deeply but infrequent watering schedule. Make sure the soil is completely moistened up to the first couple inches. Allow the top inch or two of soil to dry out to the touch before you water again.
However, you will need to adjust your watering schedule depending on your local climate and the season. In the hot summer, they may need to be watered every few days. Monitor your plants’ water needs as needed and adjust your watering schedule as necessary.
Is white bird of paradise same as bird of paradise?
No, white bird of paradise is not the same as bird of paradise. They are both members of the Strelitziaceae family, however white bird of paradise (Strelitzia nicolai) and bird of paradise (Strelitzia reginae) are two different species.
Bird of paradise features bright vibrant colors and bloom in different directions, while the white bird of paradise is a much larger plant with graceful towering foliage and large white flowers resembling a white crane.
White bird of paradise typically grows much taller than bird of paradise, reaching heights up to 20 feet, with a spread of about 10 feet. Bird of paradise usually grows 3-4 feet tall and 4-5 feet wide.
Both species are a tropical plant and need a warm climate and protection from frost, but they are very low maintenance and drought-tolerant, making them ideal plants for landscaping in warmer climates.
How can you tell the difference between Strelitzia Nicolai and Reginae?
The main difference between Strelitzia Nicolai and Reginae is their size and shape. Strelitzia Nicolai is much larger and can reach heights of up to 20-30 feet, while Strelitzia Reginae typically grows to a maximum of 10-15 feet.
Strelitzia Nicolai also has broad leaves while Strelitzia Reginae has narrower leaves. Additionally, Strelitzia Nicolai produces much larger and more abundant orange and blue flowers than Strelitzia Reginae.
The flower of Strelitzia Nicolai can reach up to 12 inches in width, while flowers of the Strelitzia Reginae are much smaller and have a width of only 6 to 8 inches. Strelitzia Nicolai also produces three to five blooms per plant while Strelitzia Reginae only produces two to three blooms per plant.
Lastly, Strelitzia Reginae is more tolerant of cold temperatures and prefers humid climates while Strelitzia Nicolai prefers warmer temperatures and is more susceptible to cold.
How long does it take for a birds of paradise plant to get big?
The growth rate of a birds of paradise plant will depend on its kind. Generally speaking, most birds of paradise plants will reach maturity after three years of growth. In optimal conditions, such as warm climates and plenty of sunshine, the plants may grow faster and reach maturity sooner.
When cared for properly, birds of paradise plants typically get quite big. As the plants mature, their height increases, and some varieties can grow up to 10 feet tall. The Bird of Paradise flowers also increase in size and become larger and more striking as the plants mature.
Birds of paradise plants require good soil and regular fertilization for proper growth. Additionally, the plants will require regular pruning for best results. Proper pruning will help to maintain a bushy shape and can also help improve a plant’s overall health.
With regular pruning and care, a birds of paradise plant can be expected to reach its mature size within three to five years.
Do birds of paradise need big pots?
Birds of paradise typically do not need large pots; however, their growing conditions must cater to the plant’s needs. Larger pots will provide more space for birds of paradise’ root systems and allow the plant to spread out, however, birds of paradise won’t require a massive planter.
Generally, it’s recommended to use a pot that is at least 12” (30.5 cm) in diameter, with drainage holes and a saucer. If a soil medium with high organic material is used, it’s advised to re-pot once a year.
Smaller and young birds of paradise may adapt better to smaller planters; however, it’s important to move them to larger planters once they have outgrown their current one. If a smaller planter is used, it’s important to be aware of water drainage, not to overwater and to consistently check the soil’s moisture.
When planting a bird of paradise, make sure to add a slow-release fertilizer in the early spring to ensure the plant has enough nutrition as it grows.
How much space does a Bird of Paradise plant need?
The Bird of Paradise plant is actually quite easy to care for and is known as one of the more low-maintenance plants out there. Generally speaking, in order to accommodate a Bird of Paradise plant, it’s recommended to have at least 2-3 feet of space around it for its roots to spread out and for it to be able to reach full maturity.
In addition, make sure the soil is well-drained and has the ability to retain moisture, but at the same time does not stay too wet. As for sunlight, it’s important for the Bird of Paradise plant to receive 4–6 hours of bright, indirect sunlight every day in order for it to thrive.
Finally, for maintenance, it’s important to fertilize the plant with a plant food every other week during the growing season and limit the amount of repotting as the Bird of Paradise can easily become root bound.
Which bird of paradise is bigger?
The Greater Bird of Paradise is larger in size than the Lesser Bird of Paradise. The Greater Bird of Paradise is typically 50–60 cm (20–24 in) in length and can weigh up to 450 grams (1 lb). The Lesser Bird of Paradise is usually 30–40 cm (12–16 in) long and weighs around 100–120 grams (3.5–4.
2 oz). The Greater Bird of Paradise is also much more colorful than the Lesser Bird of Paradise, with a glossy green plumage and brown wings, yellow chest and black mask, red breast and neck, and long tail feathers.
In comparison, the Lesser Bird of Paradise has a duller plumage, with a head and back of reddish or yellowish brown, a white collar and breast, black wings and tail, and some white streaks on its body.
What sizes do bird of paradise come in?
Bird of paradise plants come in a variety of sizes that are dependent on the variety of bird of paradise you have. Compact varieties, such as Strelitzia reginae, typically grow to be 2–3 feet (. 6–. 9 m), while larger varieties, such as Strelitzia nicolai, can grow to be 8–15 feet (2–4.5 m) tall.
Each variety also has a spread — meaning, how wide the leaves are — that can range from 2–8 feet (0.6–2.4 m) for a wider variety, such as Strelitzia alba, or 4–12 inches (10–30 cm) for a narrower variety, such as Strelitzia juncea.
The overall size of bird of paradise plants is affected by growing conditions and the amount of space each variety has.