Smarty Plants Nursery Bird of Paradise

This plant craves bright, direct sunlight. While it can tolerate partial sun, it will grow best and produce flowers only when placed in a spot that receives several hours of direct light daily, such as near a south-facing window.

No, this plant is toxic to cats and dogs if ingested. It is best kept in a location that is inaccessible to curious pets, such as a high-traffic area where they are less likely to nibble on the foliage.

Not likely. While the species can reach that height in its natural outdoor habitat, container-grown plants are restricted by their pot size and indoor environment. You can expect it to stay much more manageable, typically topping out at 6 to 10 feet indoors.

Use a high-quality, well-draining potting mix. Because this plant dislikes sitting in soggy soil, adding a bit of perlite or orchid bark to a standard indoor potting mix will help ensure proper drainage and prevent root rot.

Flowering typically occurs from spring through fall, but it requires specific conditions to happen. The plant usually needs to be mature and receive significant amounts of direct sunlight to produce its signature bird-like flowers.

While it is a tropical plant, it is surprisingly adaptable to average household humidity levels. However, if your home is particularly dry, misting the leaves occasionally or using a humidifier can help keep the foliage looking lush and prevent the leaf edges from browning.