Pitcairnia heterophylla is a striking bromeliad native to Mexico and Central America, known for its rosette of colorful leaves and tall flower spikes.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Bright Indirect
75% intensity
Prefers bright, filtered light. Avoid direct, intense sunlight which can scorch leaves.
Moderate
50% intensity
Allow topsoil to dry slightly between waterings. Ensure good drainage.
Well-draining, orchid mix or bromeliad mix
50% intensity
Average Room
50% intensity
Thrives in temperatures between 18-24°C. Protect from frost and sudden temperature drops.
Moderate
50% intensity
Feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted by half during the growing season.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|
None
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water moderately, allowing the top 2-3 cm of soil to dry out between waterings. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot. Reduce watering slightly during cooler months.
Ensure good drainage to prevent waterlogged conditions, especially in potted plants.
Prune to remove any dead, damaged, or crossing stems. Trim back leggy growth to encourage a bushier habit. Remove spent flower stalks to redirect the plant's energy into producing new foliage and flowers.
This maintains plant health and aesthetic appeal.
Propagate by division of offsets or by seed. Offsets can be carefully separated from the parent plant when they are large enough and potted into their own containers.
Seeds can be sown in a well-draining medium and kept moist and warm.
Repot every 2-3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound. Use a well-draining potting mix, such as a blend of peat moss, perlite, and bark.
Choose a pot only slightly larger than the current one to avoid excessive moisture retention.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Pitcairnia Heterophylla (Pitcairnia heterophylla)
Where Pitcairnia Heterophylla (Pitcairnia heterophylla) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Poales |
| Family | Bromeliaceae |
| Genus | Pitcairnia |
| Species | Pitcairnia heterophylla |
Similar in genus Pitcairnia
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
