Bird of Paradise Vs. Fiddle Leaf Fig

Like the ever-popular fiddle-leaf fig, the bird-of-paradise thrives in bright, sunny environments and instantly transforms any area into something special.

This South African native is less prone to death when relocated than its Instagram-famous pal. The stunning blooms of the Strelitzia, often called Bird of Paradise, inspired the plant’s common name.

The bird of paradise is a close visual analogy for these crimson, orange, and blue blossoms. Its two most well-known Strelitzia species are Strelitzia Nicolai and Strelitzia Reginae.

However, there are six different species of Strelitzias altogether. Natural Bird of Paradise plants has at least a 4-year lead time before they bloom. Instead of spring, when most plants blossom, it’s always autumn when this occurs.

This is because it requires more time for such a vast blossom to mature. Flowers are less likely to appear on an indoor Bird of Paradise plant, but they can still happen. When the plant is eight years old or older, it may bloom successfully in a controlled environment.

Table of Contents

Birds of Paradise Vs. Fiddle Leaf Fig

Birds of Paradise Vs. Fiddle Leaf Fig: Temperature

Since South Africa is the place of origin for the Bird of Paradise Plant, it is accustomed to hot, humid conditions. As a result, the plant thrives best in bright conditions with consistently damp potting soil.

Birds of Paradise Vs. Fiddle Leaf Fig: Care Tips

Light Conditions for the Bird of Paradise Plant

The ideal environment for a Strelitzia is relatively light and has little sun. The plant will thrive if placed in front of a south-facing window during the winter months.

The Bird of Paradise Plant is sensitive to hot, bright sunshine during the summer. We suggest you move it away from the window in the summer to shield it from the blazing heat of the afternoon sun.

Do not take the plant too far from the window. Put the plant somewhere very bright with filtered sunlight during the summer months.

Bird of Paradise Plant Water Care

Keep the Bird of Paradise Plant’s potting soil slightly damp by watering it occasionally. Never add a lot of water at once, and avoid having a pool of it collect at the bottom of the pot. The plant’s watering requirements increase as the weather warms up in the spring and summer.

The plant sprayer should be used frequently to sprinkle the plant, especially in the winter. This is because the heating process drastically reduces humidity levels. Spraying the plant frequently will help keep the humidity level high.

If you see brown stains on the leaves, the most likely cause might be a case of Overwatering. This can be prevented by draining extra water and for the potting soil to dry up before giving it another soaking.

Birds of Paradise Vs. Fiddle Leaf Fig: Recommendations for Potting

The Strelitzia only needs repotting after it outgrows its current container. Younger plants are more susceptible to this than more mature ones.

In the spring, repot the plant into a container that is at least 20 percent larger than the one it is currently in.

The picky character of Fiddle Leaf Figs is well-known, as is the plant’s cruelty in the face of neglect which can be discouraging if you have never taken care of a plant before.

But being one of the most popular indoor plants, you can rest confident that many green-thumb beginners have successfully owned and cultivated a gorgeous Fiddle Leaf Fig.

Make Sure There’s Drainage

The condition of your plant’s roots will determine its overall performance. Water and oxygen are the two things that roots require to thrive.

Your plant needs adequate ventilation to maintain this equilibrium. The presence of a drainage hole in the bottom of the container is, therefore, an essential first step.

Keep your plant in its original nursery pot and place it inside the decorative container if it does not already come with a drainage hole.

It would help if you did more than drain the water out; you also need to let some air get to the roots. Aerating the soil regularly is one approach to guarantee adequate oxygen levels for the plant’s roots. A chopstick and some downtimes are all that’s required.

Don’t Overwater

The Fiddle Leaf Fig needs to dry out slightly between waterings. These settings, like their natural habitat, will keep their content.

Despite appearances, this is not a straightforward task, and the most common mistake first-time owners make is giving too much water.

The plant may die quickly if you overwater it, leading to other problems. As a rule, the Fiddle Leaf Fig should be watered once per week. Remember to examine the soil before watering, as your plant may not need as much water as it seems.

Let Them Rest in Winter

Plants, like people, are sensitive to seasonal changes and need slightly different treatment at various times of the year.

For instance, your plant will use less energy because there are fewer light hours in the winter. They have lower water demands because they are not actively growing.

They do not require as much fertilizer during this time of year because they are not actively growing. However, if there’s one thing you need more of this winter, it’s sunlight.

It’s possible that your Fiddle won’t receive adequate light where you initially placed it during the winter, depending on where your tree is situated. Repositioning your planter is an excellent idea for optimal growth.

Let Old Leaves Go

Your plant has a life of its own. As a result, there’s no need to feel sad about new leaves appearing or old ones falling off, as both are part of the natural growth process.

It is not uncommon for lower leaves to fall off as a Fiddle Leaf Fig matures and becomes taller. There should be no cause for alarm so long as you can observe further expansion.

However, if many leaves fall at once, there may be an issue. If you want to save your Fiddle Leaf Fig from certain death, you’ll need to make a speedy diagnosis of the problem.

Create Humidity

The humidity level around your Fiddle Leaf Fig should be high. Their optimum range lies around between 30 and 65 percent humidity.

This may not be easy to accomplish in your house, mainly if you frequently use your air conditioner or heater, which increases air dryness.

You might want to try spraying the area or utilizing a humidifier to generate these optimal conditions. You might be caring for the plant, keeping an eye out for different signs, but you still might miss out on some occasions. The fiddle leaf fig is a high-maintenance plant!

Repot When Necessary

If you give your Fiddle Leaf Fig the attention it deserves, its root system will exceed its container every few years. Once you see roots growing through the bottom or sides of the pot, it’s time to repot.

If you want to repot your plant, do so only when the weather is warm enough for growth; in the winter, your plant will not have the reserves it needs to survive the stress.

Top treating the soil is a good idea if you’ve already got your Fiddle Leaf Fig in the largest planter your room will allow. Ensure that only the top four inches of soil are dug up and replaced.

Birds of Paradise Vs. Fiddle Leaf Fig

There are several reasons why fiddle leaf figs are so popular. They require little attention once established, can reach heights of 12 feet, and boast impressively huge, glossy leaves.

A fiddle leaf fig is a fantastic option if you need something to both take up a lot of room and make a bold statement.

The fiddle leaf fig tree has been the king of the houseplant popularity charts for years as the most stylish and popular plant for all those with an appreciation for interior decoration.

In addition to the fact that they are notoriously difficult to maintain, they may have reached the point where they’re nearly too fashionable.

While the two plants have many similarities, the Bird of Paradise wins compared to the other option since it is just as fashionable but requires much less maintenance. This gorgeous plant can be found in many different sizes.

Conclusion

It’s easy to get overwhelmed when deciding on a houseplant when there are so many choices. However, it all comes down to what you require in a plant.

Do you seek a plant that can grow tall and regal, or would you rather have something more lowly fill the floor space?

Whether you’re in the market for a plant with large leaves or vibrant blooms, there’s sure to be one that suits your needs. A fiddle leaf fig is an excellent option if you want a plant that requires little attention to maintain properly. The bird of paradise is the best option if you want a plant that will attract attention to itself and its surroundings.