Botanical name: Trelitzia nicolai.

Botanical name: Trelitzia nicolai.
Attributes: An exuberant tropical foliage plant that is hardy outdoors only in Zone 10, where it can become a small multistemmed tree. Elsewhere, it makes a fantastic indoor container plant with bold, large, blue-green leaves that are much more tatter-resistant than bananas (they are tolerant of low humidity indoors). In warm summer regions, bird-of-paradise easily reaches 8 to 12 feet in a few seasons. Its unique flowers are always a conversation piece, last for weeks and are a great cut flower, too.
Bloom color: White with blue accents.
Bloom time: Throughout the year (once established).
Culture: Plant White Bird-of-Paradise in a large container of standard soil-less potting mix. After danger of frost has past, place plants outdoors in full sun or part shade. Water and fertilize on a regular basis and do not let plants completely dry out. Bring plants indoors before frost to a spacious room with bright light for the winter. Tattered, old or wayward leaves can be removed as needed. Do not fertilize plants indoors and water only as the plant dries out.
Landscaping tips: A tropical-looking and easy care container plant for outdoor pools and patio spaces; or indoors in high ceiling entryways, great rooms and sun rooms. Its big bold foliage contrasts nicely with most palms, weeping fig, dracaenas and other common foliage house plants.
Cost: Available as foliage plants in 3-gallon pots for about $20 at greenhouses and big box retailers.
Source: Powell Gardens (www.powellgardens.org)