The Plant: Rosette-forming epiphytes originating from South America. These Neoregelia have tough, broad, strap-like leaves which may be dark green or have golden variegated leaf margins. The main feature of these Blushing Bromeliads is the intense red colour of the central leaf rosette reservoir. In N. carolinae tricolour there are small blue-purple flowers in the water-filled reservoir.
Neoregelia var carolinae
Its Needs: Blushing Bromeliads can tolerate cool growing
conditions but the winter minimum must not fall below 13C.
Warmth and humidity promote plant growth, so the leaves may need
regular misting if grown in very dry conditions or in hot
weather.
The central reservoir formed by the plant acts as a vase, and should be regularly topped up with water. Strong light with a little direct sun is required. The potting mix should be rich but free-draining.
Care: Top up the central reservoir with water regularly. Apply a
dilute liquid feed every couple of weeks throughout summer but
do not feed over winter and restrict watering. Watch for scale
pest and mealy bug.
Good for: Blushing Bromeliads are suitable for growing in large
containers, which could be stood on the floor of conservatory or
anywhere space allows. A group of these Neoregelia would be very
effective when in flower together.
Neoregelia hybrids, popularly known as "Blushing Bromeliads," are a group of bromeliad hybrids originating from the tropical regions of South America. They are prized for their striking foliage, which often changes color in the center of the plant to a vivid red or purple, hence the name "blushing."
Neoregelias are hybridized by cross-pollinating two different species or varieties of Neoregelia. The resulting seedlings are then grown out and evaluated for their desirable traits.
Unique features of these hybrids include their wide range of colors, patterns, and sizes, and the blushing phenomenon, where the central leaves change color when the plant is about to flower. This feature sets them apart from many other bromeliads.
Benefits of these hybrids include their adaptability to a range of light conditions and their ability to be grown both indoors and outdoors. However, compared to some other bromeliads, they can be more sensitive to overwatering and may require more careful watering practices.
Hybridizing plants, including bromeliads like Neoregelias, is a fascinating process that can result in new varieties with unique colors, forms, and growth habits.
Hybridization allows us to combine the best traits from different species or cultivars. This can lead to hybrids that are more vigorous, disease-resistant, or aesthetically pleasing than their parent plants. It also adds to the diversity of plants available for cultivation.
Look for parent plants with desirable traits. For Neoregelias, this might be vibrant leaf color, interesting patterns, compact size, or vigorous growth. Remember, you'll need at least one plant that's flowering to provide pollen, and another that's starting to form a flower to receive the pollen.
Ensure your plants are healthy and well cared for. They should be kept in a warm environment with high humidity to encourage flowering.
Remember, hybridizing plants can require patience and experimentation, but the results can be truly rewarding!
With the right care, your Blushing Bromeliad can be a colorful, eye-catching addition to your home or garden!
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