Neoregelia carolinae aka Blushing Bromeliad

Taxonomy

The Neoregelia carolinae, or Blushing Bromeliad, is a tropical species of flowering plant in the genus Neoregelia with saw-edged leaves and a rosette in the center that turns pink/red before flowering. It is noted for its hardiness and beauty, and is native to Brazil. When it blooms, the pink blooms in the center of the plant are actually 'bracts', and the plant only produces tiny 'true' flowers just before it dies. Blushing Bromeliad collects rainwater in the center of its bracts, so next time you water, try to mimic nature and leave a small pool for the plant to drink. Additionally, Blushing Bromeliad is not toxic for cats and dogs.

Common names

Blushing Bromeliad, Neoregelia, Hummingbird Bromeliad

How to care for Blushing Bromeliad

Difficulty

With a bit of knowledge and dedication, you can successfully care for Blushing Bromeliad, making it a rewarding choice for those seeking a moderate challenge.

Water

Blushing Bromeliad does best in dry soil and should only be watered sparingly.

Soil

To ensure the health of your Blushing Bromeliad, it's crucial to use a potting soil that won't hold too much moisture. A soil that drains well and contains perlite or vermiculite for drainage and organic matter for nutrition is ideal. Adding a few handfuls of perlite to store-bought cactus soil is an easy way to create this type of soil mix.

Lighting

To ensure optimal growth, the Blushing Bromeliad prefers bright indirect light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.

Dormancy

During the wintertime, it is common for Blushing Bromeliad plants to go dormant and their growth rate may slow down. Therefore, the amount of waterings should be spaced out more.

Cat approves this plant

Toxicity

Blushing Bromeliad is not known to cause harm to humans or pets.

Humidity

Blushing Bromeliad prefers dry environments, so misting the plant to provide extra humidity and allow water to linger on the leaves can create an ideal environment for fungi that can be harmful.

Fertilizer

Repotting the Blushing Bromeliad is necessary either when it has doubled in size or once every year, whichever happens first. With fresh potting soil replenished annually, the plant will receive all the necessary nutrients, rendering the use of fertilizer unnecessary. Keep in mind that the source of a plant's energy is the sun, not fertilizer.

Region of origin

Blushing Bromeliad’s native range is South American Rainforests.

Flower

Yes, if you provide it with the correct amount of sunlight and water, you can witness your Blushing Bromeliad blooming.


More info:
Wikipedia