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Description
Racinaea Tetrantha is an epiphytic plant that belongs to the Bromeliaceae family. It is native to the tropical rainforests of South America, particularly in Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru. This plant is named after its four-flowered inflorescence that grows on a long, slender stem. Racinaea Tetrantha is a slow-growing plant that can reach up to 30 centimeters in height and width.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Poales |
| Family | Bromeliaceae |
| Genus | Racinaea |
Appearance
Racinaea Tetrantha has long, narrow leaves that grow in a rosette formation. The leaves are green and have a smooth texture with no spines or serrations. The inflorescence grows on a slender stem that can reach up to 50 centimeters in length. The flowers are small and white, and they grow in clusters of four. The plant also produces offsets or pups that can be separated from the mother plant and propagated.
Care Guide
Racinaea Tetrantha is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips on how to take care of your Racinaea Tetrantha plant:
- Water: This plant prefers to be kept moist but not waterlogged. Water it once a week, and make sure the soil is well-draining.
- Fertilization: Use a balanced fertilizer every three months during the growing season.
- Soil: Use a well-draining soil mix that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: This plant prefers bright, indirect sunlight. Avoid direct sunlight as it can scorch the leaves.
- Hardiness Zones: Racinaea Tetrantha is not frost-tolerant and can only be grown outdoors in USDA hardiness zones 10 to 12.
Common Pests & Diseases
Racinaea Tetrantha is generally disease-resistant and pest-free. However, it can be susceptible to mealybugs, scale insects, and spider mites. To prevent infestations, keep the plant clean and free from dust, and inspect it regularly for signs of pests. If you do notice an infestation, treat it immediately with an insecticidal soap or oil.
Habitat
Racinaea Tetrantha is native to the tropical rainforests of South America, where it grows as an epiphyte on trees or as a lithophyte on rocks. It can also be found growing in the understory of the forest floor. The plant prefers high humidity and warm temperatures, and it can be grown in a terrarium or greenhouse.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Racinaea Tetrantha a rare plant?
A: Racinaea Tetrantha is not considered a rare plant, but it is not commonly found in nurseries or garden centers.
Q: Can Racinaea Tetrantha be grown outdoors?
A: Racinaea Tetrantha is not frost-tolerant and can only be grown outdoors in USDA hardiness zones 10 to 12.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Racinaea Tetrantha plant?
A: Use a balanced fertilizer every three months during the growing season.
Q: Can I propagate Racinaea Tetrantha from offsets?
A: Yes, Racinaea Tetrantha produces offsets or pups that can be separated from the mother plant and propagated.
Related Plants
- Racinaea crispa
- Racinaea fraseri
- Racinaea garciae
- Racinaea guianensis
References
- Racinaea Tetrantha. (n.d.). Retrieved June 10, 2021, from https://www.bromeliads.info/racinaea-tetrantha/
- Racinaea Tetrantha. (n.d.). Retrieved June 10, 2021, from https://www.orchidsforum.com/threads/racinaea-tetrantha.21416/
- Racinaea Tetrantha. (n.d.). Retrieved June 10, 2021, from https://www.bromeliad.org.au/pictures/Racinaea/Racinaea-Tetrantha/index.html
