Strelitzia nicholai

Greenhouse Herbaceous Perennial

• Flowers in : Summer
• Germination : Challenging
• Aftercare : Easy
• Ideal for : Conservatories, Containers
• Height : 15 feet

Description

A rarely offered robust species of Black Bird of Paradise. Beautiful bird-like blooms In white with purple - blue can take many years to bloom. Meanwhile the large exotic sword - like foliage makes a superb container plant in a conservatory.

Sowing Instructions

Sow any time of year. Remove the orange tuft and soak for up to 24 hours. Press seeds into moist sand and seal inside a plastic bag. Place in the dark at 21-24C (70-75F). Germination can take 1-6 months.

Growing Instructions

When large enough to handle, transplant seedlings into 7.5cm (3 inch)pots or trays. When well grown, pot on as necessary however always keep plants slightly pot-bound as this encourages flowering. Grow in soil-based potting mix and place in good, natural light.

Aftercare

Plants can be stood outside during the summer, but will need the winter protection of a conservatory or greenhouse. Feed monthly with balanced liquid fertiliser during spring and summer, water sparingly during winter. Plants can take many years to flower from seed.