Hello,,
I have a yellow Mexican Bird of Paradise. I would like to take the seeds and grow new plants. Here is what I was told, but is this correct? I was told I could cut the seed pods off the plant and put them in a bowl to dry out. After the pods are dry, take out the seeds and put them in a pot with dirt. Water them and they will grow. Is this correct or do I need to do anything else?
Thank you,
Mike
Yes, this is basically correct but one very important thing about pod collecting is missing. Make sure the pods are mature, a tannish colored pod with dark brown seams. They even be beginning to open at this point. You should have a 50% germination rate within 3 months.
I don't know what a Mexican Bird of Paradise is, but I suspect it might be the same plant I call Desert Bird of Paradise. If so, beware that all parts of the plant are highly poisonous, including seeds. Use gloves, or wash your hands carefully after handling.
Here is a photo of flowers on my Desert Bird of Paradise.
The easiest way to germinate Mexican Bird seeds is to dry them out then place them in vinegar or better yet sulphuric acid for 15 min, rinse well,the germination rate will be about 95%
