Contents
Description
Vriesea Philippocoburgii, also known as the Flaming Sword Plant, is a tropical evergreen plant native to Central and South America. It belongs to the Bromeliaceae family and is a popular plant for indoor decoration due to its striking appearance. The plant has an upright growth habit and can grow up to 2 feet tall and 2 feet wide. It produces a single inflorescence that consists of bright red bracts and yellow flowers that bloom in the summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Monocots |
| Order | Poales |
| Family | Bromeliaceae |
| Genus | Vriesea |
Appearance
The Vriesea Philippocoburgii has long, narrow leaves that are dark green in color with a silvery white underside. The leaves grow in a rosette formation and have serrated edges. The plant produces a single inflorescence that emerges from the center of the rosette, and it consists of bright red bracts that resemble a flaming sword. The bracts hold small yellow flowers that bloom in the summer and last for several weeks. After flowering, the plant produces offsets or pups that can be removed and planted to propagate new plants.
Care Guide
The Vriesea Philippocoburgii is a relatively easy plant to care for, and it prefers bright, indirect light. It does not tolerate direct sunlight, which can cause the leaves to burn. The plant should be watered regularly, and the soil should be kept slightly moist but not waterlogged. It is important to avoid getting water in the center of the rosette, as this can cause the plant to rot. The plant should be fertilized every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. The Vriesea Philippocoburgii prefers well-draining soil and can be grown in a mixture of peat moss, perlite, and sand. It is hardy in USDA zones 10-12.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Vriesea Philippocoburgii is susceptible to mealybugs, scale insects, and spider mites. These pests can be removed with a cotton swab dipped in alcohol or by spraying the plant with insecticidal soap. The plant can also be affected by fungal diseases such as root rot and leaf spot, which can be prevented by avoiding overwatering and providing good air circulation.
Habitat
The Vriesea Philippocoburgii is native to the tropical regions of Central and South America, where it grows as an epiphyte on trees or as a terrestrial plant in the understory of the forest. It prefers warm temperatures and high humidity and can be found at elevations of up to 5,000 feet.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the Vriesea Philippocoburgii be grown outdoors?
A: Yes, the Vriesea Philippocoburgii can be grown outdoors in USDA zones 10-12. It should be planted in well-draining soil and protected from direct sunlight.
Q: How often should the Vriesea Philippocoburgii be fertilized?
A: The Vriesea Philippocoburgii should be fertilized every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: How can I propagate the Vriesea Philippocoburgii?
A: The Vriesea Philippocoburgii can be propagated by removing the offsets or pups that appear after flowering and planting them in well-draining soil.
Q: What should I do if my Vriesea Philippocoburgii is turning brown?
A: If the leaves of your Vriesea Philippocoburgii are turning brown, it may be a sign of overwatering or low humidity. Reduce watering and increase humidity by placing a tray of water near the plant.
Related Plants
- Vriesea Splendens
- Vriesea Fosteriana
- Vriesea Hieroglyphica
- Vriesea Gigantea
References
- “Vriesea Philippocoburgii.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b521.
- “Vriesea Philippocoburgii – Flaming Sword Plant Care.” Houseplant Central, 13 June 2021, www.houseplantcentral.com/vriesea-philippocoburgii-flaming-sword-plant-care/.
- “Vriesea Philippocoburgii.” Gardening Know How, www.gardeningknowhow.com/houseplants/vriesea-philippocoburgii/flaming-sword-care.htm.
