Growth Space Required for Birds of Paradise

Description

• Bird of paradise plants are 3-foot-wide bushes that can grow 3 to 6 feet tall. They grow in a clumping habit and produce long stalks with colorful, spiky flowers, often used in floral arrangements. The leathery leaves are large and evergreen, with an attractive appearance year round. The bright orange flowers tend to grow along the outside edge of the plant; for this reason, it is best to provide plenty of space between each specimen when they are grown in groups so the flower stalks do not get crowded.

Planting

• Plant the bird of paradise 6 feet apart, which will give the plants enough space to produce their flowers and stretch. Also allow 6 feet of clearance above the plants, particularly in shady locations, where the flowers tend to grow taller. In full sun, plants are smaller and do not stretch as much. Keep in mind that this plant is slow growing and will not require the entire space early in its life. Provide moist, fertile soil with plenty of drainage. A sunny or partly shaded location is best for flowering.

Care

• Regular irrigation during establishment is key to producing a strong and deep root system. It is essential to keep the soil moist as this plant is developing during the first six months. A yellowing plant is a sign that it is receiving too much or too little water. Provide plenty of water during warm months, but water only when the soil dries during the wintertime. Apply mulch around the plant base to maintain consistent moisture and temperature levels. You may plant bird of paradise in containers, near other ornamental specimens or in groups with adequate spacing between the plants.

Flowering

• There are a few methods to improve flower production in this attractive species. Feed the plants with organic fertilizer. Prune by removing dead blossoms and flower stalks to reduce the incidence of fungal infection. If healthy and full grown, bushes can produce over 30 flower spikes a year, and the spikes can last for two weeks when cut. If growing the plants in a cold location, grow them in containers, and move them inside during freezing periods, as temperatures below 24 Fahrenheit will harm the plant.