Botanical Name:Strelitzia nicolai Common Names: Giant Bird of Paradise, White Bird of Paradise, Natal Wild Banana Plant Type: Evergreen tropical tree / large clump-forming ornamental plant
📌 Product Description
Strelitzia nicolai, commonly known as the Giant Bird of Paradise, is a striking tropical plant admired for its towering stems, large banana-like leaves, and occasional white and blue bird-shaped flowers. It is ideal for creating a dramatic architectural feature in large gardens, patios, or as a focal point in tropical-themed landscapes.This plant is well suited to South African climates in frost-free or mild frost areas and provides shade, privacy screening, and visual impact with minimal maintenance once established.
📏 Size When Fully Grown
Height: approx. 6 – 10 m
Width: approx. 3 – 5 m
Growth Habit: Clump-forming, upright leaves with occasional flower stalks
Growth Rate: Moderate to fast under optimal conditions
🌱 Best Growing Conditions
Light: Full sun to partial shade
Soil: Well-drained, fertile soil enriched with organic matter
Water:
Water regularly during establishment
Drought-tolerant once established
Reduce watering in winter
Feeding: Apply slow-release fertiliser or liquid feed in spring and summer
Maintenance:
Remove old, damaged leaves to encourage new growth
Minimal pruning required
🌦️ Planting & Growing Season (South Africa)
Best Planting Time: Spring to early summer (September – November)
Growing Season: Spring and summer for active leaf and flower growth
Flowering Season: Summer to early autumn (January – March), depending on conditions
Climate Suitability: Prefers frost-free regions; can tolerate light frost once established
🌼 Additional Benefits
Creates a tropical focal point in large gardens
Provides shade and privacy
Low-maintenance once established
Attracts birds and pollinators
🌿 Ideal Uses
✔ Large gardens & tropical landscapes
✔ Patios & poolside features
✔ Container planting for large spaces (requires big pots)
✔ Screening and privacy planting