Exposure & location

The Strelitzia nicolai loves brightness and warmth. The more light it receives, the more vigorously it grows.

• Light: bright to very bright light, without direct scorching sun on the leaves.
• Partial shade: tolerated, but growth will be slower.
• Where to place it: near a large bright window (east / west), bay window, glass roof, bright living room.
• Outdoor: possible in summer on a balcony or bright terrace, sheltered from direct sun during the hottest hours.

Verdeia Tip: regularly rotate the pot by a quarter turn for harmonious growth — the leaves tend to turn toward the light source.

Watering & maintenance

The Strelitzia nicolai appreciates regular humidity but does not like excess stagnant water. We aim for the perfect tropical balance.

• Watering: about once a week when the surface of the soil is dry to the touch (2-3 cm on the surface).
• Winter : space out watering but don’t let it dry out completely for too long.
• Atmosphere : mist the foliage and wipe with a soft cloth to remove dust from its large leaves.
• Drainage : always empty the saucer after watering to avoid roots sitting in water.
• Fertilizer : apply green plant fertilizer about every 3 weeks in spring–summer.

Verdeia tip : if the tips brown, the air is too dry. Slightly increase ambient humidity (gentle misting, tray of moist clay beads).

Benefits & assets

• Air-purifying : helps to purify indoor air.
• Soothing : its large flexible leaves create a calm and vegetal atmosphere.
• Instant tropical effect : transforms a corner of a room into a living refuge.
• Plant statement : ideal plant-sculpture for modern interiors.

The Strelitzia nicolai is perfect for bringing verticality, visual light, and a true sense of nature into the heart of the city.

Decor ideas & associations

Star plant of contemporary, bohemian, and neo-tropical interiors, the Strelitzia immediately becomes a focal point.

• In matte black planter cover : architectural look and minimalist luxury.
• In woven basket : warm and boho chic atmosphere.
• In tropical duo : pair it with a Monstera deliciosa or an Alocasia for an immersive jungle effect.
• In texture contrast : beautiful with a natural fiber rug (jute, sisal) and light wood or black metal furniture.

Verdeia decor tip : give it space. It’s a plant that breathes better when it’s not stuck between two pieces of furniture.

Verdeia Tips

• Rotation : turn the plant each week for balanced growth.
• Light: give it as much indirect brightness as possible; it loves bright rooms.
• Hydration: mist its large leaves to maintain their shine and ambient humidity.
• Repotting: about every 2 years, in a slightly larger planter cover with draining substrate.
• Atmosphere: place it in an open corner so it can fully express its majestic tropical form.

The Strelitzia nicolai embodies the Verdeia spirit: a tropical, bright, and structured presence, perfect for a soothing and contemporary urban jungle.

Technical characteristics

• Latin name: Strelitzia nicolai
• Common names: Giant bird of paradise, White bird of paradise
• Family: Strelitziaceae
• Pot diameter: Ø13 to Ø24 cm (depending on variant)
• Average height at sale: 35 to 130 cm (depending on variant)
• Exposure: bright light to partial shade
• Watering: regular but moderate, slightly moist soil without excess
• Foliage: large shiny green leaves reminiscent of the banana plant
• Growth: medium to fast
• Origin: South Africa
• Pollution removal effect: yes
• Toxicity for animals: slightly toxic if ingested

Each Strelitzia nicolai is unique: its foliage, density, and height change according to the light and seasons.