Strelitzia nicolai Seeds | Giant Bird of Paradise
LATIN NAME: Strelitzia nicolai
COMMON NAME: Giant Bird of Paradise
Plant Profile
Giant Bird of Paradise (Strelitzia nicolai) is a tall, palm in the bird-of-paradise family. It steadily establishes a rounded crown, eventually 5-10 metres tall. Give it full sun and deep, fertile ground. For the gardener, the sum of these traits is a plant that is easy to live with.
Science & Biotechnology
The species features in the wider study of the bird-of-paradise family, and its traits make it a useful subject for work on germination biology, cultivation and ornamental selection. Giant bird of paradise has a real and growing place in the research. Species like this one find a second career as research material, especially in propagation and breeding work.
Uses & Benefits
Giant Bird of Paradise works well in borders, containers and dedicated beds. Ecologically, giant bird of paradise is a generous plant of the garden. Its striking, dark-blue and white, bird-like flowers feed nectar-seeking birds and insects, and its huge, banana-like leaves give a bold, tropical cover and a shelter through the year. Beyond the establishment year, its needs are simple and few.
Bird of paradise is the most spectacular of tropical flowers, grown for its crane-like blooms; it has no medicinal record, just drama.
Growing from Seed
Seed is the natural starting point for Giant Bird of Paradise, and the process is uncomplicated. Sow the seeds evenly over the surface and cover lightly in a loose, well-drained seed compost, keep the sowing evenly moist, and give the pot or tray full sun. Once the seedlings have made true leaves, pot them on individually and plant out when they are sturdy and conditions are right.
Our Take
Giant Bird of Paradise settles in quickly once it finds its footing. It forms a tall, palm, which makes spacing and siting straightforward. Even moisture while the seed is chitting is the main thing; afterwards it largely looks after itself.
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