Giant Bird of Paradise

Strelitzia nicolai

Strelitzia nicolai, also knows as the Giant White Bird of Paradise, or Wild Banana, is a magnificent evergreen plant indigenous to South Africa, prized for its dramatic tropical appearance and architectural form. It features large, paddle-shaped, grey-green leaves arranged in a fan-like pattern, creating a bold and sculptural statement in the garden.

Mature plants produce spectacular white flowers with dark blue bracts that resemble a bird in flight. These striking blooms typically appear in late winter through summer and are highly attractive to pollinators. While flowering is most prolific in established plants, even non-flowering specimens are valued for their lush foliage and strong structural presence.

This fast-growing plant thrives in full sun to semi-shade and performs best in rich, well-drained soil with regular watering during establishment. Once mature, it is relatively hardy and tolerates short dry periods. Strelitzia nicolai is ideal for feature planting, tropical gardens, screening, poolside landscapes, large containers, and commercial landscapes where bold greenery is desired.

In colder regions, protect young plants from heavy frost. Remove damaged leaves and spent flower stems to maintain a clean, tidy appearance.

Plant Details

• Scientific Name: Strelitzia nicolai
• Common Name: Giant White Bird of Paradise
• Origin: Indigenous (South Africa)
• Flower Colour: White with dark blue bracts
• Flowering Time: Late winter to summer (mature plants)
• Height: Up to 6–10 m in open ground (smaller in containers)
• Spread: 3–4 m
• Growth Habit: Evergreen, clump-forming, architectural

Care & Planting Tips

• Planting Position: Full sun to semi-shade
• Water Requirements: Medium; water regularly while establishing
• Soil: Rich, well-drained soil
• Hardiness: Semi-hardy; protect from severe frost
• Uses: Feature plant, screening, tropical gardens, commercial landscaping, large containers

Available Sizes

• 10L