The Bird of Paradise, scientifically known as Strelitzia, is a popular perennial plant recognized for its large, banana-like foliage and striking, crane-shaped blooms. This plant grows in dense clumps due to its rhizomatous root structure, which naturally forms offsets or separate shoots. Propagating a mature clump by division is the most reliable method to create new plants, offering a much faster alternative to growing from seed. Separation is also necessary for plant health, as an overly root-bound Strelitzia can experience reduced vigor and flowering.
Preparing the Plant for Division
The optimal period for dividing a Strelitzia is in the late spring or early summer, following its typical blooming cycle and just as the plant enters its active growth phase. Attempting division before the plant has spent its energy on flowering allows it sufficient time to re-establish a healthy root system before winter. For potted specimens, a plant is ready for division when roots begin to emerge from the drainage holes or when the entire root ball is visibly straining the container. To prepare the plant and minimize transplant shock, water the Strelitzia thoroughly one to two days before the planned division. Essential tools include a sharp, sterilized serrated knife, a spade or garden fork, a tarp for holding the root ball, and fresh, well-draining potting mix. Before digging, identify viable sections, ensuring each potential division contains at least three to five healthy fans or shoots, as these units are more likely to thrive independently.
Extracting and Separating the Clump
The process begins by carefully extracting the entire root ball from its container or the ground, which can be a strenuous task due to the plant’s dense structure. For in-ground plants, dig a wide trench approximately 10 inches away from the base of the clump to preserve root mass. Once loosened, gently lift the entire root ball onto a tarp to contain the soil and provide a clean working surface. The Strelitzia rhizomes are thick and tenacious, resembling woody fingers, making separation difficult. Clean away excess soil from the root mass to locate the natural division points where the shoots are connected. Use the sterilized knife or a clean spade to sever the rhizomes, separating the individual divisions from the mother plant. This cut should be clean to reduce the risk of disease entering the wound. Ensure each new division retains a substantial portion of the fleshy, tuberous root system, as these roots are responsible for water storage and nutrient uptake.
Replanting and Post-Separation Care
The newly separated divisions should be replanted immediately to prevent the tender roots from drying out. When repotting, select a container only slightly larger than the new root ball, as Strelitzia prefer to be somewhat root-bound to encourage future flowering. Plant the division at the same soil depth it was growing previously, using a well-draining soil mix that may include perlite or coarse organic matter. After planting, give the divisions a deep, thorough watering to settle the soil around the roots and help mitigate transplant shock. Allow the top few inches of soil to dry out between subsequent waterings to prevent root rot in the fleshy rhizomes. Place the newly planted Strelitzia divisions in a sheltered location that receives bright, indirect light for the first six to eight weeks. Avoid intense, direct sun during this recovery period, as the damaged root system is less efficient at absorbing water, making the plant susceptible to scorching. Refrain from applying fertilizer for several months, resuming feeding only once clear signs of new growth appear. The original mother plant, if remaining in the ground, should have its hole backfilled and also receive a deep watering to help it recover from the disturbance.