Water
Water thoroughly when the top 5-7 cm of soil feels dry to the touch. Reduce watering in winter, allowing the soil to dry out more between waterings. Avoid waterlogged conditions, as this can lead to root rot.
Also known as White Bird Of Paradise · White Bird-Of-Paradise Flower
Cape Mock Banana (Strelitzia alba) is a striking evergreen with large, paddle-shaped leaves and pure white flowers resembling a bird's crest.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
High
75% intensity
Prefers bright, indirect light. Can tolerate some direct sun, but avoid intense afternoon sun.
Moderate
50% intensity
Allow soil to dry slightly between waterings, more in winter.
Well-draining, loamy
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Thrives in temperatures between 18-27°C. Protect from frost.
Moderate
50% intensity
Feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer during the growing season.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Non-toxic
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water thoroughly when the top 5-7 cm of soil feels dry to the touch. Reduce watering in winter, allowing the soil to dry out more between waterings. Avoid waterlogged conditions, as this can lead to root rot.
Prune to remove dead, damaged, or crossing stems. You can also prune to manage size and shape, or to encourage bushier growth. Always use clean, sharp tools to make cuts just above a leaf node.
Propagation is typically done through division of rhizomes. Carefully separate sections of the root system with at least one healthy shoot and a good root system. Pot separately in well-draining soil.
Repot every 2-3 years, or when the plant becomes root-bound. Choose a pot that is only slightly larger than the current one. Use a well-draining potting mix amended with compost.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Cape Mock Banana (Strelitzia alba)
Where Cape Mock Banana (Strelitzia alba) is found

Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Zingiberales |
| Family | Strelitziaceae |
| Genus | Strelitzia |
| Species | Strelitzia alba |
Similar in genus Strelitzia
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data