Free Strelitzia Reginae Plants

A spectacular plant with long, paddle-shaped leaves, and orange and blue flowers that arise in a crest from a beak¬ shaped bud. Some patience is required, as the flowers do not appear until the plant is six or seven years old. The blooms are produced in succession for several weeks from spring to early summer. The Strelitzia needs plenty of space. The leaves can grow up to 125cm (48in) high, and if brushed against they can very easily become ragged. Badly damaged leaves should be removed at the base of the leafstalk with a sharp knife. When the leaves become dusty or dirty, simply wipe them gently with a damp sponge. The Strelitzia is quite an easy subject to grow, and makes a superb feature plant.

Plant type : Flowering plant with erect habit
Season of interest : Spring to early summer
Size : 60-125cm (24 — 49in)
Flower : Unusual, 10-15cm (4—6in), orange and blue, growing from 12.5-20cm (5-8in) horizontal bract
Leaf : Oval, lance-shaped, leathery mid green leaves 20-40cm (8—16in), on 30-60cm (12—24in) stems
Temperature : 12-22°C (55—72°F)
Aspect/Light : Well-lit situation with some exposure to sunlight
Humidity : Moderate
Watering : Evenly moisten compost in spring and summer, allowing to dry a little before re-watering; keep on drier side in autumn and winter
Feeding : Once every two to three weeks with flowering plant fertilizer in spring and summer
Propagation : Sow seeds in seed and cutting compost at 24°C (75°F) in spring; divide plant and pot in houseplant potting compost at same temperature in mid to late spring
Potting : Houseplant potting compost
Problems : Scale insect
Availability : Rarely available
Uses indoors : Feature plant for conservatory or next to patio window