Bird of Paradise tropical plant - Ask Extension
Hello, my son bought a Bird of Paradise plant and has it on his deck. He waters it regularly but has noticed with the heat that the leaves curl up. I...
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Bird of Paradise tropical plant #869146
Asked May 19, 2024, 6:04 PM EDT
Hello, my son bought a Bird of Paradise plant and has it on his deck. He waters it regularly but has noticed with the heat that the leaves curl up. Is this normal? It is a tropical plant that should be fine in 85 degree temperatures, right? He's never had one before bit liked them when he visited Hawaii....see picture of curled leaves...Any help or suggestions are appreciated.
Kalamazoo County Michigan
Expert Response
The Bird of Paradise is a beautiful plant, so it is a treat to see it on the deck. However, as you probably know, it is out of its normal habitat unless it is in the tropics. I have never grown one myself, but have enjoyed them as I traveled.
I see that the leaves are curled as you indicated, but they still look healthy, so that is very positive. I have several suggestions: The soil in the pot looks heavy and dried out. Be sure you are using a soil that is light and airy and contains humus (decayed organic matter). Be sure it is well watered. These plants enjoy a moist soil, but never one that is saturated. Their roots should not sit in water.
From the photo it look as though the plant is in full sun. You may want to try moving it to a spot that is shaded during the hottest part of the day. It may be trying to conserve water by sheltering its leaves in the hot sun.
The link below has some general care information about the Bird of Paradise that you may find interesting. I hope your son enjoys the plant all summer.
https://gardeningsolutions.ifas.ufl.edu/plants/ornamentals/bird-of-paradise.html
I see that the leaves are curled as you indicated, but they still look healthy, so that is very positive. I have several suggestions: The soil in the pot looks heavy and dried out. Be sure you are using a soil that is light and airy and contains humus (decayed organic matter). Be sure it is well watered. These plants enjoy a moist soil, but never one that is saturated. Their roots should not sit in water.
From the photo it look as though the plant is in full sun. You may want to try moving it to a spot that is shaded during the hottest part of the day. It may be trying to conserve water by sheltering its leaves in the hot sun.
The link below has some general care information about the Bird of Paradise that you may find interesting. I hope your son enjoys the plant all summer.
https://gardeningsolutions.ifas.ufl.edu/plants/ornamentals/bird-of-paradise.html
