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The plant features tall, elegant stalks supporting large, paddle-shaped leaves that can grow over a metre long indoors. Each glossy green leaf unfurls from a sturdy stem, creating a fan-like arrangement that gives the plant its tropical silhouette. Mature specimens may even produce striking white and blue bird-shaped flowers under the right conditions, though indoors, it is primarily grown for its ornamental foliage.
Strelitzia nicolai adds height, texture, and sophistication to homes, conservatories, and offices a true statement plant that transforms interiors into lush tropical retreats.
Thrives in bright, indirect light to full sun. It can tolerate several hours of direct sunlight daily, especially when acclimated. Low light may slow growth and reduce leaf size.
Water when the top 46 cm of soil feels dry. Keep the soil evenly moist during the growing season but ensure excellent drainage. Reduce watering slightly in winter when growth slows. Avoid letting the roots sit in water.
Temperature: Prefers warmth, 1828C. Protect from draughts and avoid exposure below 12C.
Humidity: Adapts well to average indoor humidity but will thrive in higher humidity. Mist leaves occasionally to keep them fresh and to remove dust.
Use a rich, free-draining compost peat-free potting soil mixed with perlite or horticultural grit for aeration. Repot every 23 years in spring, moving to a slightly larger container each time as the plant grows.
Feed every 24 weeks during spring and summer with a balanced liquid fertiliser to promote strong growth. Stop feeding in winter.
Remove any yellowing or damaged leaves at the base to maintain a tidy appearance. Wipe the large leaves occasionally with a soft cloth to maintain their glossy finish and encourage photosynthesis. Rotate the pot periodically for even growth.
A moderately fast grower that can reach 23 metres indoors under good conditions. Its large, fan-like leaves and upright habit make it a focal point in any space.
Brown leaf edges: Low humidity or inconsistent watering.
Yellowing leaves: Overwatering or poor drainage.
Torn leaves: Common and natural due to the plants adaptation to wind in the wild.
Pests: Occasionally spider mites, scale, or thrips.
Native to South Africa, Strelitzia nicolai grows along riverbanks and forest edges, where it can reach up to 10 metres tall in the wild. Its robust structure and architectural foliage have made it one of the most popular large indoor plants worldwide. In addition to its striking appearance, it helps purify indoor air, making it both beautiful and functional.
Quick Care Summary
Light: Bright, indirect to full sun
Water: Evenly moist; allow topsoil to dry slightly
Temperature: 1828C; protect below 12C
Humidity: Average to high; mist occasionally
Soil: Rich, free-draining compost
Feed: Every 24 weeks in spring/summer
Growth: Tall, upright plant, 23 m indoors; large banana-like leaves with occasional white and blue flowers in maturity
