At a glance
- Light
- Bright / direct light
- Typical interval
- Every 6 to 8 days (summer)
Every 11 to 17 days (winter) - Climate
- 18–27 °C
- Humidity
- 50–70 %
- Pet safety
- Toxic to cats and dogs
- Scientific name
- Strelitzia reginae
When and how much water
Water bird of paradise when the top 2 cm of soil feel dry. In summer that’s typically every 6 to 8 days. In winter, slow down to every 11 to 17 days. Use room-temperature water and let any excess drain. Never leave the pot sitting in standing water.
Adjust the timing for the light at the plant, the pot’s size and material, and the humidity indoors. Terracotta dries faster than glazed ceramic.
Light and placement
Bird of paradise needs several hours of direct sun. Turn the pot every week so it grows evenly. Place it directly in front of a south- or southwest-facing window.
Feeding
Feed bird of paradise every 30 days while it’s actively growing. Use a balanced liquid houseplant fertilizer at half the strength on the label, and only on soil that’s already damp. Feeding dry roots can scorch them.
When growth pauses, skip the fertilizer and let it rest.
Temperature & humidity
Bird of paradise is comfortable between 18 and 27 °C. Below 10 °C the leaves start taking damage, so keep it clear of cold drafts and unheated rooms.
It does best at 50–70% humidity. Misting every 2 days helps in dry rooms.
Common problems
Yellowing, drooping, and dry edges often point to watering or drainage. Compare the signs before changing the routine.
Find what’s wrong
Toxic to pets?
Yes. Keep it out of reach.
Pet-safety information in the JungleBook uses ASPCA reference data where available. It is reference information, not veterinary advice.
Full Bird of paradise toxicity guide →
Pet-safe alternatives with similar light
Common questions
How often should I water a Bird of paradise?
Water your bird of paradise (Strelitzia reginae) when the top 2 cm of soil feel dry. In summer, that’s typically every 6 to 8 days. In winter, slow down to every 11 to 17 days.
How much light does a Bird of paradise need?
Bird of paradise needs several hours of direct sun. Turn the pot every week so it grows evenly. Place it directly in front of a south- or southwest-facing window.
Is Bird of paradise safe for cats and dogs?
The plant contains gastrointestinal irritants. Mainly the fruit and seeds can cause mild nausea, vomiting, and drowsiness. Keep bird of paradise out of reach of pets.
Why are my Bird of paradise’s leaves turning yellow or drooping?
On a bird of paradise, yellowing and soft growth usually mean overwatering: watch for yellowing leaves, mushy stem base, or root rot. Let the soil dry further between waterings and check drainage. If you see curling leaves, crispy leaf edges, or drooping leaves instead, it’s likely thirsty. Water a little more often. With Botanicaly Pro, Botanicaly Bot can help assess visible signs from a photo and suggest possible causes.
Sources5 references
- Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew: Plants of the World OnlineTaxonomy · accepted name · native range · classification
- Royal Horticultural SocietyGrowing Conditions · Cultivation · hardiness H1A/H1B · Pests · How to grow strelitzia · Quick facts · What are strelitzias · Ongoing care
- North Carolina State University Extension Gardener Plant ToolboxDescription · Cultural Conditions · Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems
- University of Wisconsin–Madison Division of ExtensionHouseplant · Light · Watering and fertilizing · Potting · Pests
- ASPCA Animal Poison ControlScientific name · toxicity · clinical signs · fruit and seed context
Last reviewed: 2026-09-21
