Giant birds of paradise Strelitzia Nicolai is an ornamental evergreen, tall, palm like plant with large, broad leaves up 1.5m long. During spring and early summer, it bears unusual beak-like, blue and white flowers with deep purple bracts. Giant birds of paradise / Strelitzia Nicolai Thrives in rich, moist well drained soil in a sunny to partly shaded position, with some protection from direct sun. Keep moist in dry weather.