White bird of paradise (Strelitzia alba) | seeds, 5 pcs.

VERY RARE

• Latin name: Strelitzia alba
• Danish names: White bird of paradise
• English names: White bird of paradise

Strelitzia alba is one of the most impressive species in the bird of paradise genus. The species originates from South Africa, where it grows in coastal forests and humid valleys. In the wild, it can develop into a small tree with a height of up to 10 meters, making it one of the largest species in the genus.

The plant develops large, banana-like leaves and a sturdy trunk, which gives it a tropical and exotic appearance. Compared to the more well-known Strelitzia reginae, Strelitzia alba is significantly larger and more woody in its growth.

The flowers are large and elegant with white petals and dark details. While Strelitzia reginae is known for its orange and blue flowers, Strelitzia alba distinguishes itself with its more muted and elegant interplay of colors.

The species is often confused with Strelitzia nicolai, which also grows very large and has white flowers. Generally, however, Strelitzia alba develops fewer side shoots and a more woody growth habit, while Strelitzia nicolai often becomes wider and more clump-forming.

If you are interested in birds of paradise, you can also explore the rest of our collection of Strelitzia seeds, where you will find both classic species, rare collector's plants, and exciting varieties such as Strelitzia reginae, Strelitzia reginae 'Mandela's Gold', Strelitzia juncea, Strelitzia nicolai and Strelitzia parvifolia.

Cultivation and requirements

Strelitzia alba thrives best in full sun to light partial shade and prefers:

• Well-drained and nutrient-rich soil (we recommend our Calathea & Maranta soil)
• Consistent watering during the growing season
• Good air circulation
• Warm and bright conditions

A well-drained Mediterranean or tropical potting soil is ideal for cultivation. For optimal growth, an organic fertilizer can be used throughout the growing season.

The species can tolerate brief, light frost, but in Denmark, it is best grown as a container plant, greenhouse plant, or conservatory plant. In winter, it should be kept in a bright and frost-free location.

Due to the plant's potential size, ample space should eventually be allocated for both the root system and the leaves.

Growing from seeds

Seeds of Strelitzia alba germinate best under warm conditions. For the best results, we recommend:

• First, remove the orange "tuft"
• Soaking in lukewarm water for 24–48 hours
• Sowing in a well-drained soil mixture
• Temperature of 22–28 °C
• Keep the soil evenly moist, but not wet

Germination typically occurs within 4–12 weeks, but some seeds may take longer. The young plants will gradually develop their characteristic broad leaves.

As with other birds of paradise, it requires patience to grow the plant to flowering size, but the result is one of the most impressive species in the genus.

Utility and collector's value

Strelitzia alba is primarily grown as an ornamental and collector's plant. The combination of its woody growth, enormous leaves, and elegant white flowers makes the species particularly attractive to collectors of exotic plants.

For bird of paradise enthusiasts, it represents an exciting contrast to the more colorful species and cultivars.

The plant also serves as an impressive focal point in larger greenhouses, conservatories, and subtropical plant collections.

Strelitzia alba is an obvious choice for the plant enthusiast who wants to grow a majestic and rarely cultivated bird of paradise entirely from seed – a species with impressive size, elegant flowers, and high collector's value.

• See also our article on caring for Strelitzia