Birds of Paradise White (Strelitzia Nicolai)

Though the aviary bird of paradise will never get as large as the plant which takes its name, the majestic plumage of both makes the comparison understandable (there are different varieties for both bird and plant, but we recommend specifically gandering the bird, Terpsiphone paradisi, to the plant, Strelitzia Nicolai). In the wild, Terpsiphone is known for its showy voice and plumes; while these traits usually denote more promiscuous aviary species, this bird seeks an exclusive relationship, where it will partner with their lover to aggressively protect their home and brood. Due to some local practices, the bird is also associated with a mythical creature similar to the phoenix, eternally aflight. The plant is not only similar because it attracts birds (for pollination) and feather (split) their leaves with age, but because they have come to symbolize long-term commitment to those we love (a classic gift for a ninth anniversary). After all, trouble in paradise is still paradise for lovebirds, as long as they have one another.

How to Care for Birds of Paradise White?

Hailing mainly from tropical and subtropical parts of Africa, Strelitzia Nicolai loves the sun. Usually, as long as you keep it in a very bright area and remember to water it when the soil dries out. As if mimicking the bird, the leaves of the bird of paradise tend to feather (split, fray and spiral) with age, and you should only (carefully!) remove leaves if there are brown spots (fungal leaf spots) or fuzzy mold anywhere on the foliage. After this, all you just have to give the space to grow.