Fingernail Plant
- Common name: Fingernail Plant
- Scientific name: Neoregelia spectabilis
- Family name: Bromeliaceae
- Origin: Brazil
- Height: 1 to 1.5 ft
- Width: 1 to 2 ft
- Growth: Slow
- Zone: USDA Zones 9B through 11
- Light needs: Dappled shade
- Salt tolerance: Low
- Soil/pH/Texture: It can be grown epiphytically or in-ground. If grown in-ground, ensure that the soil is very well drained and slightly acidic (pH of around 6.5).
- Moisture: Soil should be slightly moist but never wet. This plant absorbs moisture through the gap formed in the center of the rosette, which should have water in it at all times. Tolerant of high humidity.
- Drought tolerance: High
- Pests/Diseases: Root rot may occur if soil is too wet.
- Growing conditions: Once established, this plant is generally low maintenance. If grown epiphytically, wire it to the tree branch until the roots have taken hold. It will need little care after this, as rainwater will naturally flush out and refill the center of the rosette, and the leaves of the tree will provide adequate shade. If grown in-ground, make sure it is in an area with enough shade, as too much direct sunlight can damage the leaves. If the plant is grown in an area where it is not exposed to rainfall, make sure to flush out and refill the tank regularly to get rid of pests and bacteria.
- Characteristics: The leaves of this plant grow directly from the base in a rosette pattern, forming a gap in the center which collects water and nutrients. The roots do not typically absorb water and nutrients and are instead used for support. The leaves are typically olive green in color, linear to ovate in shape, with entire margins and a mucronate apex. In most individuals, the tips of the leaves are bright pink or red, hence the common name “fingernail plant”. The small, three-petaled blue flowers emerge from the base of the central cup. After flowering, the plant begins to decline, producing several offsets before it dies.
- Propagation: By offsets.
- Wildlife: Frogs and insects are often found in the central cup.
- Facts: The specific epithet “spectabilis’ means “showy” or “spectacular” in Latin.
- Designer considerations: This showy bromeliad should be planted in a place where it can be seen. Unlike other bromeliads, the margins of this plant are not sharp, so one does not have to worry about brushing up against it. Because of this, it is more suitable for ground plantings and container plantings. It should be paired with plants that have more textured, coarse foliage.
Location
Bromeliad Island Garden
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Fingernail Plant