네오레겔리아

Soil Type:

Use a GOOD rich potting soil (a soil that retains water yet drains well), such as an African violet mix. If you want to mix your own take: 1 part humus (leaf mold), 1 part peat and 1 part coarse sand or perlite. Always use a pot with a hole.

General Description:

The broad, verdant rosettes of this epiphytic bromeliad blush red at their center as they bloom. It is native to tropical forests of Brazil.

Neoregelia carolinae produces evergreen rosettes of leathery, arching, strap-shaped leaves with finely toothed margins. The leaf bases at the center of the rosette form a tubular cup which catches and holds water. Mature rosettes bear tiny lavender blooms on dome-shaped flower heads that are held within the blushing 'water cup.' Rosettes die after flowering, producing offsets (pups) to take their place.

This tropical tree-dweller loves humidity, warmth, and a moist, well-drained growing medium. Secure it to a tree branch in a tropical garden or greenhouse, or grow it in a porous potting mix that's rich in organic matter (such as sphagnum or pelleted bark). Keep the rosette 'cup' filled with water from spring to fall, especially if plants are exposed to direct sun rays. Water sparingly from late fall through winter. Blushing bromeliad makes a nice border accent or massed groundcover for frost-free gardens.

Among the named selections of this bromeliad are 'Flandria,' with cream-edged leaves and bright scarlet centers. The leaves of variety tricolor have pale yellow and pink stripings.

Usage-Container, Groundcover, Houseplant, Mixed Border, Tropical