Neoregelia Concentrica
Location
Bromeliad Garden
- Common name: Neoregelia Concentrica
- Scientific name: Neoregelia Concentrica
- Family: Bromeliaceae
- Origin: Brazil
- Height: 1 ft
- Width: 2 ft
- Growth: Slow
- Zone: USDA Zones 1 and above
- Light needs: Dappled or indirect light
- Salt tolerance: Low
- Soil/pH/Texture: As with other Neoregelia species, this plant is epiphytic, naturally growing on tree branches rather than in soil. It can be cultivated in containers or in the ground, but it requires an airy, well-drained substrate such as a bark-based potting medium.
- Moisture: Water is collected through the cup formed at the center of the leaves. The substrate should only be watered when completely dry. Tolerant of high humidity.
- Drought tolerance: Moderate
- Pests/Diseases: Susceptible to root rot when overwatered.
- Growing conditions: This plant is best suited for tree plantings, which provide it with adequate shade and drainage. If cultivated in-ground or in a container, make sure that a well-drained substrate is used. The substrate should remain dry or slightly moist and should never remain wet. The central cup should be flushed out and refilled regularly to remove pests and bacteria.
- Characteristics: As with other bromeliads, this plant does not have stems. Instead, its leaves are arranged in a rosette from the base of the plant. This forms a central cup which collects water and nutrients for the plant to absorb. The leaves of this species are broad, flat, and oblong, with toothed margins and an apiculate or emarginate apex with a “pinched” tip. The leaves will begin to turn a distinct magenta around the center as it starts to bloom. The tiny, white, three-petaled flowers appear at the base of the cup. After flowering, the plant will begin to decline and die, but it will produce offsets.
- Propagation: By offsets.
- Wildlife: This species, along with other bromeliads, are ecologically important plants that support several amphibian species, some of which can live out their entire lifespans within the cup of this plant. Many insects depend on bromeliad cups to shelter their water-dwelling larvae.
- Designer considerations: This plant is not recommended for borders or ground cover due to its sharp leaves. Plant it in an area where it is out of reach of pets or children, yet where one can see its center, as that is the most distinct part of this plant. Low tree branches or logs are ideal.