Reducing the Size of Giant Bird of Paradise: Rhizome-Preserving Pruning Technique

Cutting Back Strelitzia nicolai in San Francisco

To reduce height, cut entire shoots off at ground level. The underground rhizome remains intact and will send up new, shorter shoots.

Key Points

• Remove whole shoots for a clean look—don't leave half‑cut stems.
• Any time of year is fine in your climate.
• The plant is nearly indestructible as long as the rhizome isn't damaged.

This method keeps the plant manageable without sacrificing vigor.