Bromeliad 'Vriesea sucrei'

Vriesea sucrei is a species from the Bromeliad family. These plants form a rosette of leaves that are gutter-shaped and overlapping. In the centre of this rosette, a small amount of water could be stored. The leaves of this species are wine-red with high-light conditions, from the abaxial as the adaxial surface as well. When grown under low light conditions, the leaves of this plant are more faintly green. The plant could grow out to around thirty centimetres in diameter when mature. When cared for properly, this plant could produce a single, bright red inflorescence. From this inflorescence, subsequently multiple tube shaped, bright yellow flowers are formed that are pollinated by hummingbirds in the wild. After flowering, the mature plant could produce pups at the base that could be detached and grown separately.

Vriesea sucrei occurs naturally from tropical areas of Brazil. It grows as an epiphyte on upper branches of tropical trees. Cultivate this species under high humidity conditions of at least 70% and temperatures between 16 and 28 degrees Celsius. Good air flow is essential for the growth of this species. Provide lots of lights for this plant; high light conditions turn the leaves into an attractive red coloration and promotes flowering. Acclimatize this plant to direct sunlight. Water bromeliads by pouring water in the centre of the rosette. The roots function only as anchorage, water and nutrients are taken up from the leaves. Place this plant in very airy soil for epiphytes that could dry out quickly. Fertilize this plant monthly with specialized orchid fertilizer, the recommended dosage.