FRONDERE PLANTS
(frondere: to be in leaf)
Strelitzia Nicolai
£45.00
The White Bird of Paradise!
An African evergreen perennial, this massive plant grows with oblong, grey-green leaf blades up to 1.5m long on 2m long leaf stalks. In spring it produces blue and white flowers, opening in succession, from blackish, beak-like spathes in its natural environment. In the UK it's rare to get a flower unless it is kept in optimum conditions mimicking those of Africa.
Strelitzia have a naturally ragged look to their leaves. The leaves split for two reasons: one to protect themselves from winds so the leaves don't get shredded, and two it allows the light to filter through to any underlying shoots. It's a natural part of their makeup and gives the plant a rustic look!
Our plants are currently putting out new leaves and are around 5ft tall with one stem per pot. They are currently in 10litre pots and are very heavy so are COLLECTION ONLY.
Quantity
Only 4 left in stock
Care
Strelitzia like moist soil so keep it well watered - usually every 3 days is good. During summer feed it once a month. Reduce watering during the winter to once a week at most.
Keep in a bright spot out of direct sunlight as this will scorch its leaves. In the warm UK summers it can live outside as long as its not in direct sun.
Repot once the pot becomes congested.
Growth Habit
Tall and showy with giant leaves and thick long stems.
Good to know
A misting once a week will keep it happy. Watch out for pests - spiders seem to like making homes between their leaves.
This plant needs LOTS OF SPACE!