Landscape Uses
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South Florida Growing Guide
Light Requirements
Water Requirements
Once established (12–18 months), Bird of Paradise is drought-tolerant and requires minimal supplemental irrigation in South Florida.
Moderate water needs — drought tolerant once established but blooms better with consistent moisture. Water 2x per week during establishment. After establishment, 1-2x per week in dry season. Avoid overwatering — root and crown rot in poorly drained soils is the primary failure cause.
Soil and Fertilization
Fertilizer: Balanced slow-release fertilizer 8-2-12 plus micronutrients
Schedule: February and October. Balanced slow-release fertilizer. Micronutrients in limestone soils.
Salt Tolerance
- Mature Height
- 4–6 ft
- Mature Width
- 3–5 ft
- Growth Rate
- moderate
- Water Demand
- 3/10
- Florida Grade
- Florida
- Installed Cost
- $$
- USDA Zones
- 9b, 10a, 10b, 11
- FLEPPC Status
- None
- Iguana Rating
- 5/10
Where to Buy in South Florida
Find Bird of Paradise at South Florida nurseries — check availability and pricing at nurseries near you.
Frequently Asked Questions
How fast does Bird of Paradise grow in South Florida?
Bird of Paradise has a moderate growth rate. In South Florida's warm, humid climate it typically establishes quickly with proper watering and fertilization.
Is Bird of Paradise safe for pets?
Bird of Paradise is not safe for pets. Mildly toxic to dogs and cats — ASPCA lists as causing nausea and vomiting if ingested. Typically not palatable — rarely causes serious issues. Advise clients with pets to monitor.
How much water does Bird of Paradise need in South Florida?
Low water needs (3/10). Once established (12–18 months), Bird of Paradise is drought-tolerant and requires minimal supplemental irrigation in South Florida.
Can Bird of Paradise tolerate salt air in South Florida?
Bird of Paradise has moderate salt tolerance (4/10). It can handle some coastal exposure but should be protected from direct ocean spray.
Is Bird of Paradise available in Miami-Dade County?
In Miami-Dade County, Bird of Paradise is classified as: allowed. Allowed.
County Availability in South Florida
Miami-Dade County
Allowed. Extremely popular in Miami-Dade's high-end residential communities (Coral Gables, Key Biscayne, Coconut Grove).
✓ Coastal OK
USDA Zone 10a–11. Tropical climate, year-round warmth and humidity.
View County Guide →Broward County
Allowed. Standard accent plant in Broward upscale communities.
✓ Coastal OK
USDA Zone 10a–10b. Subtropical with warm winters and wet/dry seasons.
View County Guide →Palm Beach County
Allowed. Cold tolerance to Zone 9b makes it suitable for all Palm Beach County locations.
✓ Coastal OK
USDA Zone 9b–10b. Transitional zone with occasional winter cold in north.
View County Guide →Collier County
Allowed. Popular in Naples, Marco Island, and Naples Cove resort communities.
✓ Coastal OK
USDA Zone 10a–10b. Subtropical Gulf Coast with seasonal flooding.
View County Guide →Monroe County
Allowed. Good for inland and protected Keys locations.
USDA Zone 11. Tropical maritime, highest salt exposure of all 5 counties.
View County Guide →Full ordinance references and permit requirements available to Professional subscribers. Always verify current county requirements before installation.
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Ask about Bird of Paradise
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