Bird of paradise care: light, water, and pet safety

Strelitzia reginae and S. nicolai

Care table

Light	Bright indirect light to some direct sun. Very bright light with some direct sun. Needs strong light to bloom.
Water	Water when the top inch dries. Water when the top inch of soil is dry.
Humidity	Prefers 40 to 50 percent or more
Repotting	Every 2 to 3 years. Blooms better root bound.

Winter care

Growth slows. Let the soil dry a little further between waterings, stop fertilizer until spring, and keep it away from cold drafts and heat vents.

Pet safety

Toxic to cats and dogs (ASPCA). ASPCA entry: Bird of Paradise Flower

Pet safety comes from the ASPCA Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants list. The list is not exhaustive, and a plant marked non-toxic can still upset a pet stomach. If a pet eats a plant and you are worried, call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 (a fee may apply). ASPCA Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants list.

Common problems

Split leaves: Normal. Leaves split along veins, more so in wind or low humidity.
Curling leaves: Thirsty or dry air.

How to check the soil

Finger test: push a finger into the soil up to the first knuckle, about an inch. Dry and crumbly means that layer is dry. Cool or damp means wait. For deeper checks use a wooden skewer: it comes out clean when the soil is dry.

All houseplants and the Light and Water tool