Bird of Paradise (Giant White) plant

Bird of Paradise (Giant White)

عصفور الجنة الأبيض (ستريليتزيا نيكولاي)

Strelitzia nicolai

Approximate price

Approx. SAR 300-900

Available size

Statement · Over 150 cm

Pet safety

Not Pet Friendly

Care level

Moderate

Light

Bright indirect light

Watering

Moderate water

Recommended placement

Indoor · Living room, Entrance, Office

Availability

Usually available, subject to seasonal stock

Pot size

30 cm pot and above

Estimated prices for a healthy medium-size plant in a standard pot at premium Riyadh plant shops; they vary by size, pot and availability.

Plant overview

Huge paddle leaves on tall stems; can reach the ceiling indoors.

The statement plant for tall ceilings; banana-like leaves. Rarely flowers indoors, so buy it for the foliage.

Botanical name

Strelitzia nicolai

Mature size

Over 150 cm

Final size varies with the variety, pot size and light conditions.

Light details

Bright indirect light

Near a bright window behind a sheer curtain. Direct Riyadh midday sun can scorch the leaves.

Watering details

Water once the top 3-5 cm of soil is dry and empty the saucer afterwards. Yellow leaves mean too much water; drooping means watering was late.

Watering needs change with room temperature, pot size and season, so check the soil rather than following a fixed schedule.

Humidity

Average humidity

Copes with normal indoor humidity; keeping it out of direct AC airflow helps.

Temperature

Ordinary indoor temperatures between 18 and 28°C suit it well.

Avoid direct AC airflow and intense heat behind glass in summer.

Soil

A well-draining indoor potting mix.

Fertilizer

A balanced diluted liquid feed once a month from spring to early autumn; stop in winter.

Repotting

Repot when roots fill the pot or push through the drainage holes, when the plant becomes unstable, or when growth slows. Move up one pot size only.

Pruning

Remove yellow or dried leaves at the base; most of these plants need no regular pruning.

Leaf care

Wipe broad leaves with a damp cloth to remove dust, and avoid leaf-polish products.

Caring for this plant in Riyadh

Loves the brightest spot you have, even some direct morning sun. Leaf splitting is normal, not damage.

Pet safety details

CatsNot Pet FriendlyDogsNot Pet Friendly

Toxic (hydrocyanic acid, mainly in seeds and fruit): nausea, vomiting, drowsiness.

Source: the ASPCA list of toxic and non-toxic plants. If a pet swallows any plant, contact a veterinarian immediately.

Common problems

  • Yellow leaves: usually overwatering or poor drainage.
  • Brown tips: dry air, tap-water minerals or a direct AC draft.
  • Drooping: watering was delayed or the soil dried out completely.
  • Slow growth: not enough light or time to repot.

Common pests

Spider mites in dry conditions, Mealybugs on stems and leaves, Fungus gnats when the soil stays wet

Best placement

  • Living room
  • Entrance
  • Office

Gifting

Pot and planter

A large neutral stone-look or cream ceramic planter that balances the plant's size.

Size options

  • Small·20-40 cm · 12-15 cm pot
  • Medium·40-90 cm · 17-21 cm pot
  • Large·90-150 cm · 24-30 cm pot
  • Statement·Over 150 cm · 30 cm pot and above

Available sizes vary by plant and stock; confirm the size when ordering.

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