My Bird of Paradise Plant Is Not Blooming

While ample sunlight and good soil are key to producing healthy bird of paradise plants, there are several subtle reasons why an otherwise healthy bird of paradise (Strelitzia reginae) would fail to produce blooms.

Spacing

• Many bird of paradise plants will grow up to 6 feet wide. Planting bird of paradise plants too close to each other or other plants may hinder blooming.
  

  Time Frame

• Bird of paradise grown from seed may take three to five years to bloom, according to the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences Extension. The Clemson Cooperative Extension suggests that the variable characteristics of bird of paradise seed could mean the wait is four to 10 years.
  

  Winter Damage

• The Florida Cooperative Extension Service Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences at the University of Florida points out that a severe winter can damage the bird of paradise and prevent it from blooming for the entire year. The service recommends growing bird of paradise in pots in areas with harsh winters so they can be brought indoors.