How Fast Do Birds Of Paradise Grow?

Types Of Bird Of Paradise Plants

Native to South Africa, bird of paradise plants are large flowering herbaceous perennial plants that grow from rhizomes. There are several species within the Strelitzia genus, including:

• Strelitzia reginae - The most popular bird of paradise flower, also called an orange bird of paradise plant for its vibrant orange and blue flowers.

• Strelitzia nicolai - Whose common name is the giant white bird of paradise (also called the giant bird of paradise plant), crane flower, or wild banana. The flowers are white with blue striations.

• Strelitzia juncea - A drought-resistant, narrow-leafed bird of paradise with blue-green leaves and smaller orange flowers.

• Strelitzia alba - Another variety of white bird of paradise but without the blue striations. It shares many common names as Strelitzia nicolai, though it is a different species.

Does Bird Of Paradise Grow Year-Round?

In its native habitat, bird of paradise can grow year-round due to the consistently warm temperatures and high humidity. In cooler climates, it may only grow outdoors in the summer.

As an indoor plant, bird of paradise will grow year-round under the right growing conditions, but their growth rate may slow during winter. This is because tropical plants thrive in warm, humid conditions and require plenty of sunlight to grow.

During the winter, indoor environments tend to be drier and have less natural light, which can lead to slower growth.

Do Birds of Paradise Grow Quickly?

The growth rate of these plants is different for indoor and outdoor cultivation.

Birds of paradise plants are relatively slow-growing compared to some other houseplants. However, with proper care and attention, they can still put out a substantial amount of growth each year.

Indoor plants can grow at an average rate of 2-3 leaves per year, with each leaf measuring between 18 and 24 inches in length. However, factors such as lighting, temperature, and humidity can all impact the growth rate.

For example, plants grown in indirect, bright light with a consistent temperature of around 70 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit and moderate humidity levels will generally grow faster than those placed in lower light conditions or with temperature and humidity fluctuations.

How New Growth Appears

New growth on a bird of paradise plant typically appears in the form of new leaves emerging from the center of the plant.

In some cases, a single leaf may take several weeks to fully unfurl, depending on the specific conditions in which the plant is grown. However, once the leaf has fully matured, it will add to the overall size and density of the plant.

While bird of paradise plants may not be the fastest-growing houseplants, their large size makes any new growth impressive.

How To Make Birds Of Paradise Grow Faster

If you're looking to encourage faster growth in your Birds of Paradise plants, there are several key factors to consider:

Optimal Water

Bird of paradise plants prefer consistently moist soil but do not like to be waterlogged. Over-watering causes root rot and other problems, so let the soil dry out slightly between waterings. Use a well-draining potting mix and ensure adequate drainage holes in the container to avoid standing water.

Adequate Sunlight

Being from South Africa, bird of paradise plants thrive in tropical areas with bright, indirect light, so place them near a window that receives plenty of natural light (with partial shade). Do not leave them in direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves.

Good Soil

The base of the plant should be healthy and free from any signs of damage or disease, so use nutrient-rich soil to support healthy growth. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, and remove excess water if it gathers around the base of your pot.

Use high-quality, well-draining soil with a blend of organic matter and minerals. Adding perlite or sand to the mix can help improve drainage. If the potting soil mix has good water-retention properties, mulch is unnecessary.

Repotting an indoor bird of paradise plant is typically necessary every 2 to 3 years or when the plant outgrows its current container, or the soil becomes compacted and depleted.

Regular Fertilization

These plants benefit from regular fertilization during the growing season, typically from early spring through early fall. Use a balanced powder or liquid fertilizer with a ratio of 10-10-10 or 20-20-20 every two weeks during the growing season. Follow the instructions on the label to avoid over-fertilization.

Appropriate Humidity

Birds of paradise plants prefer moderate to high humidity levels, so consider using a humidifier or keeping a tray of water next to the plant to increase moisture in the air. Misting the leaves regularly can also keep them hydrated.

Will Pruning Make A Bird Of Paradise Grow Faster?

Pruning is sometimes beneficial for indoor plants but may not necessarily lead to faster plant growth. Consider these factors:

Removing Dead or Yellowing Leaves

Pruning off yellowing or dead leaves redirects the plant's energy toward new growth.

Encouraging Bushier Growth

Pruning encourages a fuller, bushier plant by removing leggy or spindly growth. Cutting back the stem may produce new shoots and leaves, giving it a more attractive, lush appearance.

Controlling Size

If your mature plant is getting too large or unruly, pruning will keep it under control. Cutting back the stems encourages the plant to grow in a more compact, manageable shape.

Use sharp, clean pruning shears and cut just above a leaf node to encourage new growth.