Contents
Description
Pitcairnia Flammea is a species of flowering plant that belongs to the Bromeliaceae family. It is native to Ecuador and can be commonly found in the Andean cloud forests. The plant is known for its vibrant and showy inflorescence, which has a bright red or orange color that can last for several weeks. Pitcairnia Flammea is an epiphyte, which means that it grows on other plants without harming them. It can also grow on rocks or on the ground.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Poales |
| Family | Bromeliaceae |
| Genus | Pitcairnia |
Appearance
Pitcairnia Flammea has a rosette of long, narrow leaves that can grow up to 60 cm in length. The leaves are green with red or purple undersides and have sharp spines along their edges. The inflorescence is a spike that can grow up to 1 m tall and is composed of many small flowers that are arranged in a spiral. The flowers are tubular and have bright red or orange petals that are covered with fine hairs. The plant blooms in the summer and fall.
Care Guide
Pitcairnia Flammea is a relatively easy plant to care for. Here are some tips:
- Water: Water the plant when the soil is dry to the touch. Make sure to water the center of the rosette, where the plant stores water.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant every two months with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: Use a well-draining soil mix that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: Pitcairnia Flammea prefers bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, which can burn the leaves.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant can be grown in USDA hardiness zones 10-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Pitcairnia Flammea is relatively pest and disease resistant. However, it can occasionally be affected by mealybugs, spider mites, or scale insects. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant can also be susceptible to root rot if overwatered or planted in poorly draining soil.
Habitat
Pitcairnia Flammea is native to the Andean cloud forests of Ecuador, where it grows as an epiphyte on other plants or rocks. The plant can also be found growing on the ground in areas with moist soil and partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Pitcairnia Flammea a good indoor plant?
A: Yes, Pitcairnia Flammea can be grown indoors as long as it is provided with bright, indirect light and well-draining soil.
Q: How often should I fertilize Pitcairnia Flammea?
A: Fertilize the plant every two months with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Can I grow Pitcairnia Flammea in a terrarium?
A: Yes, Pitcairnia Flammea can be grown in a terrarium as long as it is provided with bright, indirect light and well-draining soil.
Q: Can I propagate Pitcairnia Flammea?
A: Yes, Pitcairnia Flammea can be propagated by removing the offsets that grow at the base of the plant and planting them in a separate container.
Related Plants
- Pitcairnia Altensteinii
- Pitcairnia Aubletiana
- Pitcairnia Feliciana
- Pitcairnia Magnifica
References
- “Pitcairnia Flammea.” Bromeliad Society International, www.bsi.org/brom_info/Pitcairniaflammea.html.
- “Pitcairnia Flammea.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287676.
- “Pitcairnia Flammea.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/105701/Pitcairnia-flammea/Details.
