Guzmania Triangularis
Contents
Description
Guzmania Triangularis is a tropical epiphytic plant that belongs to the Bromeliaceae family. It is a popular houseplant that is native to Central and South America. The plant has long, broad, and stiff leaves that grow in a rosette pattern, forming a funnel-shaped tank in the center. The flower stalks emerge from the center of the tank and bear bright red, orange, or yellow bracts that can last for several months. The plant also produces small, insignificant flowers that are hidden within the bracts.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Poales |
| Family | Bromeliaceae |
| Genus | Guzmania |
Appearance
The leaves of Guzmania Triangularis are long, broad, and stiff, growing up to 30 inches in length. The leaves are green in color and have a glossy texture. The plant forms a rosette pattern and the leaves curve upwards, creating a funnel-shaped tank in the center. The flower stalks emerge from the center of the tank and bear bright red, orange, or yellow bracts that can last for several months. The bracts are ovoid in shape and can grow up to 6 inches in length. The plant also produces small, insignificant flowers that are hidden within the bracts.
Care Guide
Water: Guzmania Triangularis should be watered regularly, but it is important not to overwater the plant. The plant should be watered when the top inch of the soil is dry. It is important to avoid getting water in the center of the plant, as this can cause the plant to rot.
Fertilization: The plant should be fertilized every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. It is important to dilute the fertilizer to half strength before application.
Soil: Guzmania Triangularis prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A mixture of peat moss, perlite, and orchid bark is ideal.
Sunlight: The plant should be placed in a bright location, but it should be protected from direct sunlight. Direct sunlight can cause the leaves to burn.
Hardiness Zones: Guzmania Triangularis is not frost-tolerant and should be kept indoors in cooler climates.
Common Pests & Diseases
Guzmania Triangularis is susceptible to mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant is also prone to root rot if overwatered or if water collects in the center of the plant. To prevent root rot, it is important to avoid overwatering and to ensure that the plant has good drainage.
Habitat
Guzmania Triangularis is native to Central and South America, where it grows as an epiphyte in rainforests. The plant grows on trees, rocks, and other plants, using them for support. The plant absorbs moisture and nutrients from the air and rainwater that collects in the center of the plant.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Guzmania Triangularis be grown outdoors?
A: Guzmania Triangularis is not frost-tolerant and should be kept indoors in cooler climates. However, it can be grown outdoors in warm, humid climates.
Q: Does Guzmania Triangularis need to be repotted?
A: Guzmania Triangularis does not need to be repotted very often. It is recommended to repot the plant every 2-3 years or when the plant has outgrown its container.
Q: How often should Guzmania Triangularis be fertilized?
A: Guzmania Triangularis should be fertilized every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. It is important to dilute the fertilizer to half strength before application.
Q: Can Guzmania Triangularis tolerate direct sunlight?
A: Guzmania Triangularis should be placed in a bright location, but it should be protected from direct sunlight. Direct sunlight can cause the leaves to burn.
Related Plants
- Guzmania Lingulata
- Guzmania Monostachia
- Guzmania Musaica
- Guzmania Wackermannii
References
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/houseplants/guzmania/growing-guzmania-plants.htm
- https://www.thespruce.com/guzmania-care-overview-1902779
- https://www.houseplantsexpert.com/guzmania-care.html
- https://www.orchidrepublic.com/blogs/news/guzmania-care-guide
