STRELITZIA nicolai 50 seed

Related to Stelitzia reginae this close cousin is a much larger plant forming huge clumps of tall striking foliage to 6 metres with large flowers that resemble birds' heads. Popular for use in floral arrangements.
Very hardy with large dramatic leaves for a true tropical effect. Excellent for surrounding pools.
Prefers light to medium well-drained soil in an open sunny position, drought and frost tender.

Named after the Russian Emperor Nicholas the first.
Originates from South Africa.

Grow notes:

Although seed can be sown most of the year in many parts of Australia seed is generally best sown in spring or autumn, avoid the coldest and hottest months of the year. The optimum germination temperature for germination is around 25°C for this species.

1. Nick seed with a sharp knife or abrade with coarse sandpaper.
2. Soak seed 24 hours in warm water and remove the bright orange hairs attached to one end.
3. Sow seed 1cm deep.
4. Water with fine mist spray to avoid disturbance of the seed.
5. Place in a warm shaded or semi-shaded position to avoid dying out.
6. Keep warm & moist, avoid drying out or waterlogging the growing mix.
7. Germination generally occurs in around 4-8 weeks @ 25°C.

Note: Some research has shown it may also be beneficial to place the seed in a plastic bag and place it in the refrigerator for two weeks prior to the process note above.

General note: Seeds of many natives are dormant and require specific conditions or pre-treatment for germination.
Do not be too hasty to discard seed that does not germinate, seeds will often lay dormant until the conditions are similar to their natural requirements for germination to occur. Containers put to one side will often surprise long after they were discarded.