Contents
Description
Guzmania Lingulata Var. Cardinalis is a beautiful bromeliad plant that is native to Central and South America. It is a member of the bromeliad family and is often grown as a houseplant due to its attractive colors and ease of care. This plant is also known as Scarlet Star and is a popular choice among plant enthusiasts.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Poales |
| Family | Bromeliaceae |
| Genus | Guzmania |
Appearance
Guzmania Lingulata Var. Cardinalis is a beautiful plant that has a rosette of leaves that form a vase-like shape. The leaves are long and narrow, with sharp tips that can be slightly curved. The plant grows up to 2 feet in height and 1 foot in width.
The flowers of this plant are the main attraction as they are bright red and have a star-like shape. The flowers are held above the leaves on a spike that can grow up to a foot long.
Care Guide
Guzmania Lingulata Var. Cardinalis is an easy plant to care for, making it a great choice for beginners. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:
- Water: Keep the plant’s central cup filled with water at all times and change the water weekly to prevent bacterial growth. Water the soil sparingly as the plant prefers to be kept slightly dry.
- Fertilization: Feed the plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
- Soil: Use a well-draining potting mix that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: Guzmania Lingulata Var. Cardinalis prefers bright, indirect sunlight. Avoid direct sunlight as it can scorch the leaves.
- Hardiness Zones: This plant is not frost tolerant and is best suited for USDA hardiness zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Guzmania Lingulata Var. Cardinalis is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, here are some issues that you may encounter:
- Mealybugs: These insects can be found in the crevices of the plant and can be removed by spraying the plant with a mixture of dish soap and water.
- Scale: These insects appear as small brown bumps on the leaves and can be removed by rubbing them off with a cotton swab dipped in alcohol.
- Root rot: Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can be prevented by ensuring the plant is not sitting in water and the soil is well-draining.
Habitat
Guzmania Lingulata Var. Cardinalis is native to Central and South America, where it grows in moist, tropical forests. It prefers to grow on trees or other structures that provide support and good drainage.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water Guzmania Lingulata Var. Cardinalis?
A: Keep the plant’s central cup filled with water at all times and change the water weekly to prevent bacterial growth. Water the soil sparingly as the plant prefers to be kept slightly dry.
Q: Can I grow Guzmania Lingulata Var. Cardinalis in direct sunlight?
A: No, this plant prefers bright, indirect sunlight. Avoid direct sunlight as it can scorch the leaves.
Q: How often should I fertilize Guzmania Lingulata Var. Cardinalis?
A: Feed the plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
Q: What should I do if I notice root rot?
A: Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can be prevented by ensuring the plant is not sitting in water and the soil is well-draining.
Related Plants
- Guzmania Lingulata
- Guzmania Monostachia
- Guzmania Musaica
References
- “Guzmania Lingulata Var. Cardinalis.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=281506.
- “Guzmania Lingulata Var. Cardinalis.” Gardening Know How, www.gardeningknowhow.com/houseplants/guzmania-scarlet-star/guzmania-lingulata-cardinalis.htm.
