Description
A small species from Brazil with soft olive green foliage which is suffused with burgundy.
The wire-like pendant flower spike is rather unusual and very attractive. The floral bracts are widely spaced and are bright red from which yellow flowers emerge.
This miniature Vriesea is perfectly suited for growing epiphytically in trees, on tree stumps or decorative driftwood in shady spots.
An exceptional plant for growing in a hanging basket and it will be the centre of attraction when in flower. Ideal for gardeners with limited space. This little plant should be on everyone’s wish list.
Plant Care:
Tips for growing your plant successfully:
Light: Vriesea scalaris rubra is best grown in partial shade to shade.
Soil: Generally Bromeliads which grow terrestrially, require good drainage and like to grow in soil which is airy and fast draining. We recommend the addition of compost or fine bark to the planting area. When growing your plant in containers, it is also important to ensure that your soil is light, airy and free draining. A combination of a good quality potting soil with the addition of either coco peat, pine bark or perlite is recommended.
Watering: Many Bromeliads are surprisingly water wise. When watering, water your plant thoroughly, then allow to dry out before watering again. Always ensure that there is water in your Bromeliad’s tank, cup or reservoir. The frequency of watering will vary according to the season. Remember if you are unsure as to whether to water or not, rather keep the plant on a drier side as overwatering can lead to fungal problems which can kill a plant quickly. Plants grown epiphytically will require more frequent watering particularly during very hot spells.
Fertiliser: Use a balanced water soluble fertilizer at half the recommended strength once a month during spring and summer.
Temperature: Vriesea scalaris rubra is best grown in areas where the minimum winter temperatures do not fall below 3 degrees Celsius.
Please Note:
The plant is currently growing in a 12 cm plastic pot and are near flowering size. It will be supplied bare root (without a pot or soil). Although our plants are grown under the same conditions and we carefully handpick your plant to ensure the best quality possible, no two plants are identical. Also the colours of plants can vary according to the season. The plant supplied will be similar to the plant photographed.
