Strelitzia reginae (Bird of Paradise) Ø9cm

Strelitzia reginae (bird of paradise) - an iconic tropical plant with architectural leaves and spectacular orange and blue flowers. A dramatic, exotic presence that thrives in bright light and rewards you with easy, forgiving care. Note: fruits and seeds are toxic if ingested. Care instructions Strelitzia reginae is one of the hardiest tropical houseplants, making it an excellent choice for both beginners and experienced collectors. Light is the most critical factor. Strelitzia loves light - the more, the better. Position it near a south- or west-facing window for best results. It can tolerate direct sunlight (after an acclimatisation period), which sets it apart from many other houseplants. In insufficient light, growth slows dramatically and petioles elongate disproportionately as the plant searches for light. Watering should be moderate. Allow the top 3-5 cm of soil to dry between waterings, then water thoroughly. In summer, this means roughly once a week; in winter, every 10-14 days. Strelitzia's fleshy roots are particularly sensitive to waterlogging - soggy substrate causes root rot faster than in most plants. Temperature should ideally remain between 18-28°C. Strelitzia tolerates temperatures down to 5-10°C for short periods, making it suitable for balconies during warm months. It does not tolerate frost. Soil must be well-draining. A mix of universal potting soil with perlite and coarse sand (2:1:1 ratio) works well. Repot every 2-3 years in spring. Note: Strelitzia roots are powerful and can crack plastic pots! Feeding monthly during the growing season (April-September) with a balanced liquid fertiliser. Stop feeding in winter entirely. Specifications Pot diameter: 9 cm Total height (incl. pot): 20 cm Flowering stage: No flowers