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Description
Racinaea Penlandii is a rare, epiphytic bromeliad that is native to Ecuador. It belongs to the family Bromeliaceae, which includes over 3,000 species of flowering plants. This plant was first discovered in 1943 by Julian A. Steyermark and named after William L. Penland, who collected the type specimen.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain: | Eukarya |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Phylum: | Tracheophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Poales |
| Family: | Bromeliaceae |
| Genus: | Racinaea |
Appearance
Racinaea Penlandii is a small bromeliad that grows up to 20 cm in height and 15 cm in diameter. It has a rosette of leaves that are green and glossy on the upper side, and slightly hairy and reddish on the underside. The leaves are narrow, measuring up to 10 cm in length and 1.5 cm in width. The plant produces a simple, erect inflorescence that is up to 15 cm long and bears small, greenish-yellow flowers.
Care Guide
Racinaea Penlandii is a relatively easy plant to care for, as long as its basic needs are met. Here are some tips for keeping your plant healthy:- Water: Water your plant regularly, keeping the central cup filled with water. Avoid letting the water become stagnant, as this can lead to rot. Use rainwater or distilled water if possible.- Fertilization: Feed your plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season (spring and summer). Do not fertilize during the dormant season (fall and winter).- Soil: Use a well-draining, epiphytic mix that includes bark, sphagnum moss, and perlite. Do not use soil, as this can lead to root rot.- Sunlight: Provide your plant with bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, as this can scorch the leaves.- Hardiness Zones: Racinaea Penlandii prefers warm, humid conditions and is best suited for USDA hardiness zones 10-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Racinaea Penlandii is relatively pest-free, but it can be susceptible to mealybugs, scale insects, and spider mites. These can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant can also be prone to root rot if overwatered or if the water becomes stagnant. To prevent this, ensure good drainage and avoid letting the water sit in the central cup for too long.
Habitat
Racinaea Penlandii is native to Ecuador, where it grows as an epiphyte in cloud forests at elevations of 1,500 to 2,500 meters above sea level. It is typically found growing on trees, rocks, or mossy logs.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Racinaea Penlandii a rare plant?
A: Yes, Racinaea Penlandii is considered a rare plant due to its limited distribution and small population size.
Q: How often should I water my Racinaea Penlandii?
A: Water your plant regularly, keeping the central cup filled with water. Avoid letting the water become stagnant, as this can lead to rot.
Q: Can I grow Racinaea Penlandii indoors?
A: Yes, Racinaea Penlandii can be grown indoors as long as it is provided with bright, indirect light and a humid environment.
Q: What is the best fertilizer for Racinaea Penlandii?
A: Use a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season (spring and summer). Do not fertilize during the dormant season (fall and winter).
Related Plants
– Racinaea garciae- Racinaea tillandsioides- Racinaea wagneriana- Racinaea lilliputiana
References
– BSI Cultivar Registry. (n.d.). Racinaea Penlandii. Retrieved from https://registry.bsi.org/?genus=RACINAEA&id=12253- Hirtz, R. (n.d.). Racinaea Penlandii. Retrieved from https://www.bromeliad.org.au/pictures/Racinaea-Penlandii.html- Leme, E. M. C. (2015). Bromeliaceae da Mata Atlântica Brasileira: guia ilustrado para identificação das espécies. São Paulo: Editora Planta.- Racinaea Penlandii. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.llifle.com/Encyclopedia/BROMELIADS/Family/Bromeliaceae/21297/Racinaea_penlandii
