White Bird Of Paradise 15G

White Bird of Paradise – Strelitzia nicolai (15 Gallon Pot) available in Jupiter, FL.

Bring bold, tropical architecture to your landscape with the White Bird of Paradise, Strelitzia nicolai. Known for its towering height, massive banana-like leaves, and striking white and blue flowers, this plant makes an unforgettable statement in South Florida gardens. This 15-gallon specimen is well-established and ready for immediate impact, whether you’re creating a privacy screen, lush tropical backdrop, or a containerized patio feature.

A member of the Strelitziaceae family and Monocotyledonae class, Strelitzia nicolai is native to South Africa but thrives in warm, humid climates like South Florida. While it shares a genus with the more petite orange-flowered Bird of Paradise (Strelitzia reginae), the white variety grows much larger and adds dramatic vertical presence to any design.

Key Features:

• Botanical Name: Strelitzia nicolai

• Common Name: White Bird of Paradise

• Family: Strelitziaceae

• Class: Monocotyledonae

• Pot Size: 15 Gallon

• Mature Height: 20–30 feet

• Spread: 6–10 feet

• Growth Habit: Clumping, upright

• Flower Color: White and dark blue with purple bracts

• Bloom Time: Spring through summer (may take 3–5 years to flower)

• USDA Zones: 9b–11 (perfect for South Florida)

Sunlight Needs:
Thrives in full sun to part shade. In South Florida, morning sun with afternoon shade offers the best balance for vibrant growth and leaf protection.

Watering:
Water regularly to keep soil consistently moist during the first year. Once established, water 1–2 times per week depending on weather. Avoid overwatering and ensure good drainage to prevent root rot.

Soil Requirements:
Prefers rich, well-drained soil with high organic content. Slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0–7.0) is ideal. Amend sandy soils with compost or aged mulch for improved moisture retention.

Fertilization:
Feed with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer 3 times per year—early spring, mid-summer, and fall. Additional magnesium or micronutrients may be helpful in sandy South Florida soils.

Pest & Disease Tips:
Generally pest-resistant but monitor for mealybugs and scale insects, especially in dense clumps. Improve airflow between plants and treat with neem oil if needed. Avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues on older leaves.

Maintenance & Pruning:
Trim off dead or damaged leaves at the base as needed. Can be pruned to control height or maintain a cleaner appearance. Divide large clumps every few years if crowding occurs.

Special Notes for South Florida Gardeners:

• Perfect for use as a living privacy wall, windbreak, or focal point in tropical landscapes.

• Can be grown in large containers for patios or poolside elegance.

• Cold-sensitive below 30°F—protect during rare winter dips in temperatures.

• Pairs beautifully with heliconia, ginger, crotons, and other tropical companions.

Jupiter Farms & Nursery