FloridaLandscapeIQ
White Bird of Paradise (Strelitzia nicolai) growing in South Florida
Grade Florida #1

White Bird of Paradise — South Florida Plant Guide

Strelitzia nicolai

Family: Strelitziaceae · Tree

Legal status pending editorial verification. Confirm with your county before installation.

Landscape Uses

tropical tree specimenpoolside focal pointentryway statementscreening treetropical backdrop

Style Tags

tropicalresortdramaticbold foliagespecimen

South Florida Growing Guide

Light Requirements

Full SunPartial Sun

Water Requirements

Low3/10

Once established (12–18 months), White Bird of Paradise is drought-tolerant and requires minimal supplemental irrigation in South Florida.

Moderate water. 2x per week dry season once established. Reasonably drought tolerant once established. Avoid waterlogged soils.

Soil and Fertilization

sandyloamwell drained

Fertilizer: Balanced 8-2-12 slow-release with micronutrients.

Schedule: February, May, September balanced slow-release fertilizer.

Salt Tolerance

Moderate (5/10) — some protection from direct spray recommended
Mature Height
1830 ft
Mature Width
1015 ft
Growth Rate
fast
Water Demand
3/10
Florida Grade
Florida #1
Installed Cost
$$$
USDA Zones
9b, 10a, 10b, 11
FLEPPC Status
None
Iguana Rating
6/10

Where to Buy in South Florida

Find White Bird of Paradise at South Florida nurseries — check availability and pricing at nurseries near you.

Frequently Asked Questions

How fast does White Bird of Paradise grow in South Florida?

White Bird of Paradise has a fast growth rate. In South Florida's warm, humid climate it typically establishes quickly with proper watering and fertilization.

Is White Bird of Paradise safe for pets?

Yes, White Bird of Paradise is considered pet-safe. Non-toxic. Generally safe for pets.

How much water does White Bird of Paradise need in South Florida?

Low water needs (3/10). Once established (12–18 months), White Bird of Paradise is drought-tolerant and requires minimal supplemental irrigation in South Florida.

Can White Bird of Paradise tolerate salt air in South Florida?

White Bird of Paradise has moderate salt tolerance (5/10). It can handle some coastal exposure but should be protected from direct ocean spray.

Is White Bird of Paradise available in Miami-Dade County?

In Miami-Dade County, White Bird of Paradise is classified as: allowed. Allowed.

County Availability in South Florida

Miami-Dade County

Allowed

Allowed. NOT FLEPPC.

USDA Zone 10a–11. Tropical climate, year-round warmth and humidity.

View County Guide →

Broward County

Allowed

Allowed. Very common throughout Broward tropical landscape applications.

USDA Zone 10a–10b. Subtropical with warm winters and wet/dry seasons.

View County Guide →

Palm Beach County

Allowed

Allowed. Cold hardy — excellent Palm Beach County reliability compared to more tender tropicals.

USDA Zone 9b–10b. Transitional zone with occasional winter cold in north.

View County Guide →

Collier County

Allowed

Allowed. Common in Collier County landscape applications.

USDA Zone 10a–10b. Subtropical Gulf Coast with seasonal flooding.

View County Guide →

Monroe County

Allowed

Allowed. Common in Keys landscape use.

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.

Need a Spec Sheet?

Export a client-ready PDF with Florida Grade specs, county legal status, maintenance schedule, and failure risks. Available to Professional subscribers.

Generate Spec Sheet →

Ask about White Bird of Paradise

Get answers grounded in UF/IFAS research and South Florida landscape data.