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Description
Pitcairnia Funkiae, commonly known as Funk’s Pitcairnia, is a member of the Bromeliaceae family. It is native to Brazil and grows in epiphytic conditions, meaning it thrives in tree branches and other non-soil surfaces. This plant is named after Walter Funk, a collector of bromeliads, who first found it in 1973.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Monocots |
| Order | Poales |
| Family | Bromeliaceae |
| Genus | Pitcairnia |
Appearance
The Pitcairnia Funkiae has a funnel-shaped rosette of leaves that form a cup in the center. The leaves are green and can grow up to 30 cm long and 2.5 cm wide. The inflorescence is a spike that grows up to 70 cm tall, with pinkish-red flowers that bloom in the summer. The flowers are small and have a tubular shape, with yellow anthers that protrude from the petals.
Care Guide
Water: Pitcairnia Funkiae requires moderate watering, with the soil kept moist but not waterlogged. It is recommended to water less in the winter months.
Fertilization: Use a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season (spring and summer).
Soil: Use a well-draining soil mix, such as a mix of bark, perlite, and peat moss.
Sunlight: Pitcairnia Funkiae thrives in bright, indirect sunlight. It can also tolerate some direct sunlight in the morning or evening.
Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 10-12.
Common Pests & Diseases
Pitcairnia Funkiae is susceptible to scale, mealybugs, and spider mites. It can also be prone to root rot if overwatered or planted in soil that doesn’t drain well.
Habitat
Pitcairnia Funkiae is native to Brazil and grows in epiphytic conditions, meaning it thrives in tree branches and other non-soil surfaces. It grows in humid, tropical regions and can be found at elevations up to 1200 meters.
Question and Answer
Q: Does Pitcairnia Funkiae need high humidity to thrive?
A: Yes, this plant prefers high humidity levels, around 60-70%. You can increase humidity by misting the leaves or placing a tray of water near the plant.
Q: How often should I repot my Pitcairnia Funkiae?
A: It is recommended to repot every 2-3 years or when the plant has outgrown its current container.
Q: Can I propagate Pitcairnia Funkiae?
A: Yes, this plant can be propagated through offsets that grow from the base of the plant. Simply separate the offset and plant it in a new container.
Q: What is the best temperature range for Pitcairnia Funkiae?
A: This plant prefers temperatures between 60-80°F (15-27°C).
Related Plants
- Pitcairnia Flammea
- Pitcairnia Albiflos
- Pitcairnia Magnifica
- Pitcairnia Pupurea
References
- “Pitcairnia Funkiae.” Bromeliad Society International. https://www.bsi.org/brom_info/Pitcairnia-funkiae/
- “Pitcairnia Funkiae.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c246
- “Pitcairnia Funkiae.” World Checklist of Selected Plant Families, Kew Science. http://wcsp.science.kew.org/namedetail.do?name_id=256198
