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Description
Neoregelia Carolinae, also known as the Carolinae Beauty or Blushing Bromeliad, is a stunning bromeliad plant native to Brazil. It belongs to the Bromeliaceae family and is a popular houseplant due to its vibrant colors and easy maintenance. This plant is known for its striking green and red foliage that turns bright pink when exposed to bright light. The plant can grow up to 18 inches wide and 12 inches tall, making it an ideal centerpiece for any interior decoration.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Poales |
| Family | Bromeliaceae |
| Genus | Neoregelia |
Appearance
Neoregelia Carolinae has a unique rosette-shaped growth habit that makes it an attractive addition to any room. Its leaves are broad, stiff, and arranged in a circular pattern around the rosette. The leaves have a glossy texture and are green in the center with red margins. When exposed to bright light, the red margins turn a bright pink color, giving the plant a blushing effect. The plant produces a pink flower spike with small, white flowers that emerge from the center of the rosette.
Care Guide
Neoregelia Carolinae is an easy-to-care-for plant that thrives in bright, indirect sunlight. Here are some tips on how to care for this stunning plant:
Water
Water the plant thoroughly once a week, ensuring that the water reaches the center of the rosette. Avoid letting the plant sit in standing water to prevent root rot.
Fertilization
Feed the plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season (spring and summer).
Soil
Neoregelia Carolinae prefers well-draining soil. Use a mixture of potting soil, sand, and perlite to provide good drainage.
Sunlight
Place the plant in a bright, indirect sunlight location. Avoid direct sunlight as it can burn the leaves.
Hardiness Zones
Neoregelia Carolinae is not frost-tolerant and grows best in USDA hardiness zones 10-12.
Common Pests & Diseases
Neoregelia Carolinae is a relatively disease-resistant plant. However, it is susceptible to mealybugs and scale insects. Check the plant regularly for signs of infestation and treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil if necessary.
Habitat
Neoregelia Carolinae is native to Brazil and grows in tropical rainforests. It prefers warm temperatures and high humidity.
Questions and Answers
Q1. How often should I water Neoregelia Carolinae?
A1. Water the plant thoroughly once a week, ensuring that the water reaches the center of the rosette. Avoid letting the plant sit in standing water to prevent root rot.
Q2. What fertilizer should I use for Neoregelia Carolinae?
A2. Feed the plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season (spring and summer).
Q3. Can Neoregelia Carolinae tolerate direct sunlight?
A3. No, Neoregelia Carolinae prefers bright, indirect sunlight. Direct sunlight can burn the leaves.
Q4. What are the common pests that infest Neoregelia Carolinae?
A4. Mealybugs and scale insects are common pests that infest Neoregelia Carolinae. Check the plant regularly for signs of infestation and treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil if necessary.
Related Plants
- Neoregelia ‘Fireball’
- Neoregelia ‘King of Kings’
- Neoregelia ‘Tiger’
- Neoregelia ‘Tricolor’
References
- “Neoregelia Carolinae.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b826.
- “Neoregelia Carolinae.” Gardenerdy, 1 June 2021, gardenerdy.com/neoregelia-carolinae-care.html.
- “Neoregelia Carolinae.” The Spruce, 21 June 2021, www.thespruce.com/neoregelia-carolinae-care-1902752.
