Scarlet star airplant
Taxonomy
- Kingdom: Plantae
- Subkingdom: Viridiplantae
- Infrakingdom: Streptophyta
- Superdivision: Embryophyta
- Division: Tracheophyta (Vascular plants)
- Subdivision: Spermatophytina (Seed plants)
- Class: Liliopsida (Monocots)
- Superorder: Lilianae
- Order: Poales
- Family: Bromeliaceae
- Subfamily: Tillandsioideae
- Genus: Guzmania
- Species: Guzmania lingulata
Common Names by Region
- English: Scarlet Star, Vase Plant, Air Plant
- Spanish: Estrella Escarlata
- Portuguese: Estrela Vermelha
- French: Guzmania Écarlate
- German: Scharlach-Sternbromelie
- Chinese (Mandarin): 红星凤梨 (Hóngxīng fènglí)
Description
- Growth Habit: Epiphytic bromeliad forming a rosette of stiff, glossy leaves with a central floral bract.
- Size: Typically grows 12–18 inches (30–45 cm) in height and width.
- Leaves: Long, strap-like, arching, deep green leaves with smooth margins, forming a spiraling rosette.
- Flowers: The true flowers are small, tubular, and white or yellow, emerging from the showy red or orange floral bracts, which can last for several months.
Known Range
- Native Range: Central and South America, including Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Costa Rica, and Venezuela.
- Cultivated Range: Grown worldwide as an ornamental houseplant, particularly in tropical and subtropical regions.
Care Requirements
- Light: Prefers bright, indirect light; tolerates some shade but avoids direct sun exposure.
- Watering: Fill the central rosette with water, refreshing it weekly to prevent stagnation. Mist the foliage occasionally in dry climates. Avoid soggy soil.
- Soil: Epiphytic, typically grown in loose, well-draining orchid bark, sphagnum moss, or a specialized bromeliad mix.
- Humidity: Thrives in high humidity (50-70%); benefits from misting in drier environments.
- Temperature: Prefers warm temperatures (65–80°F / 18–27°C); sensitive to cold and should not be exposed to temperatures below 50°F (10°C).
- Propagation: Produces offsets (pups) at the base after flowering. These can be separated and replanted once they are about 1/3 the size of the parent plant.
- Common Pests/Diseases: Generally pest-resistant but may occasionally attract mealybugs, scale insects, or aphids. Overwatering can lead to root or crown rot.
Additional Notes
- Special Features:
- Known for its striking, long-lasting floral bracts.
- An epiphytic plant that can be mounted or potted, making it versatile for display.
- Helps improve indoor air quality by absorbing pollutants.
- Maintenance Level: Low; ideal for beginners due to its minimal care needs.
The Scarlet Star Airplant is a stunning tropical addition to any space, offering vibrant color and effortless beauty. Whether mounted on driftwood, displayed in a decorative planter, or used in a terrarium, this Guzmania brings an exotic flair to indoor and outdoor environments alike.
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