Habitat and Ecology
​Strelitzia nicolai, commonly known as the Giant Bird of Paradise or Natal Wild Banana, is a very large, evergreen, clump-forming perennial native to the coastal regions of South Africa (Eastern Cape, KwaZulu-Natal) and extending into Mozambique and Zimbabwe. It is a terrestrial plant, found naturally along coastal dunes and in evergreen forests near the coast. This species is highly tolerant of salty coastal winds and benefits from a warm, frost-free climate with moderate rainfall.  
​Description
​This is an imposing, architectural plant that can reach tree-like proportions in its native habitat (up to 8-12 metres). When grown indoors in the UK, it remains much more manageable, typically reaching 2-4 metres. It forms dense clumps of upright, woody stems (canes). The foliage is its main feature: the leaves are enormous, paddle-shaped, and resemble those of a banana plant, growing up to 1.5 metres long on long petioles. The leaves are typically a greyish-green colour and have a natural tendency to shred or split as they mature, which is normal and helps the plant withstand winds in the wild. Mature plants (often after 5-8 years) produce unique, striking inflorescences with a purplish-black, boat-shaped spathe (bract) from which emerge large, sequential, white and blue flowers, resembling the head of an exotic bird.  
​Cultivation
​Strelitzia nicolai is a tender tropical plant that requires maximum light, warmth, and humidity to thrive indoors. Place it in the brightest location possible, such as a south-facing window or warm conservatory. It can tolerate some direct sun, but protect it from intense, unfiltered midday sun in summer to avoid leaf scorch, especially when young. Plant in a rich, organically-rich, loam-based compost with added grit/sand to ensure excellent drainage. Water regularly and liberally during the spring and summer growing season, keeping the compost consistently moist but never saturated. Reduce watering significantly in winter, allowing the top portion of the soil to dry out between waterings. High humidity (50%+ is ideal) is appreciated; misting or using a humidity tray is beneficial.  
​Optimal Daytime Temperature: 18-27 C (64-81 F)  
​Minimum Winter Temperature: Must not fall below 10 C (50 F). Protect from cold drafts.  
​Feed fortnightly during the growing season (April to September) with a balanced liquid feed. It flowers best when slightly pot-bound, so only repot every two to three years in spring.  
​Unique Features
​The Giant Bird of Paradise is a quintessential architectural statement plant, instantly bringing a lush, tropical jungle feel to any large room or conservatory. Its most distinctive characteristic is the sheer size and fan-like formation of its banana-like leaves, giving it an immense presence. For the patient collector, the potential to see its magnificent white and blue, bird-head flowers emerge is a major horticultural event, as blooming is rare but rewarding in domestic settings.  
​Specifications
​Plant Size: 90 cm tall. Raised in the EU and imported in this state.
​Plant Family: Strelitziaceae  
​Plant Passport: A Strelitzia nicolai B 140084 C [buyer inputs number found on the plant label] D GB