Difference in White Bird of Paradise?

[Zach K]

Can anyone tell me the difference between the Nicolai Strelitzia (Giant White Bird of Paradise) growing in the lobby of my work and the 'types' seen growing in areas like So Cal?

The ones growing at work seem to have no trunk, very long petioles and large leaves that are flat. The ones found in So Cal (They obviously grow in other places, Im just honing in on So Cal) seem to have trunks with shorter petioles and smaller, curved leaves. Am I missing something here??

The first two pictures are from work. The last 2 are from google.

Thanks. 

 

[AZPalms]

Sun exposure is most likely what you’re seeing. I have two sets in my AZ garden. The one in majority day shade is stretched and curved towards sun, larger leafs. The one in full sun is much more dense and compact. 

[Zach K]

Interesting. Thanks for that!

[Sandy Loam]

I agree. These photos all look like strelitzia Nicolai to me. 

 

Sometimes when I am down in Miami, I get these confused with the very similar looking ravenala madagascariensis.  To me, the white bird of paradise looks even more like the Traveller's Tree than it looks like the Orange Bird of Paradise (strelitzia reginae). 

Also, I have never seen a phenakospermum guyannense, but it is supposed to be similar in appearance as well.