Bromeliaceae - Botanical Family

The Deuterocohnia sp. (Abromeitiella) plant can reach anywhere between two to five feet tall and is suitable for use as a groundcover in low-growing areas, with ornamental foliage. The Abromeitiella is native to Argentina, Bolivia, and Brazil and is a great addition to your dwelling as an ornamental plant. It prefers a location in a full sun, where it can receive abundant light, as well as a moderate amount of water. Usually, when the climate is cold, they need less water, however, they should not be totally deprived of it. The Abromeitiella can be grown in USDA Zones 9-11.

For those living in a colder climate, it is best to plant the Abromeitiella in a pot and bring it inside during the winter months. This is due to the cold temperatures they cannot survive. When grown in a pot, the Abromeitiella should be watered every one to two weeks and during the winter months, this can be further reduced to once a month or month and a half. When you water, ensure that the soil is completely damp but not overloaded with water otherwise the roots can become soggy and damage the plant. Also, providing good drainage is essential for the Abromeitiella, as without it, their roots can become weak. If you want to fertilize your Abromeitiella, it is best to do it during the summer months, when they are actively growing.

Dyckia is a showy bromelia with bright yellow flowers that is a great attractor for butterflies and bees. It prefers bright light, but should be protected from afternoon sun and can be used in xeriscape or succulent gardens. Dyckias are generally very cold hardy and can withstand temperatures down into the low twenties or even the upper teens, making them tough plants that are suitable for growing in USDA zones 9-11.

This genus is part of the subfamily Pitcairnioideae, which contains some of the most primitive bromeliad species. Most species in this subfamily are saxicolous (living on or around rocks) or terrestrial (growing in the ground), and Dyckias can be found in both categories, although most are strictly terrestrial and all do well when grown as strict terrestrials. Most of the approximately 120 different species of Dyckia are native to central Brazil, with some found in Uruguay, Paraguay, Argentina, and Bolivia. Most are found growing among rocks in warm sunny areas.

Dyckias come in several sizes and shapes, ranging from short, 2-foot groundcover plants to 5-foot tall shrubs. The foliage on many species is so stiff and spiky that one must be careful when handling them. Dyckias are known for their showy central inflorescence and brightly colored flowers, which can range in color from yellow, orange, and red. The bloom often lasts for several months and can be a showstopper in the garden, attracting butterflies and hummingbirds.

Dyckias are easy to grow and require sun to semi-shade and moderate water. They can be grown in containers and will thrive indoors if given enough light (at least 4-6 hours of direct sun). They should be watered regularly in warm weather, but allowed to dry out between waterings to prevent the roots from rotting. They also make great epiphytes, growing well if affixed to a dead tree, wall, or rock outcropping. When grown in a pot, they should have well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. In cold climates, the pot should be brought indoors in winter or placed in an area with some protection, such as a garage. The plant should then be cut back, leaving only a few leaves on the rosette, and kept on the dry side while indoors.

Dyckia remotiflora typically grow to a maximum height of between two and five feet, although most of them are considerably smaller and resemble a mound of green or silver. They prefer to grow in full sun, although they can also do well in semi-shade environments. These low-growing plants are native to South American regions, including Brazil and Paraguay. They produce an ornamental foliage that is either green or silver in color and is quite interesting in texture.

Dyckias are also technically known as epiphytes, meaning that they often grow by attaching themselves directly onto other objects such as trees or rocks. Because of this habit, they do not need very much soil in order to thrive.

The interesting colorful blossoms of the Dyckia remotiflora are one of the main characteristics that makes it such an attractive houseplant. These flowers come in a range of colors, including red, crimson, and vinous, as well as yellow and orange. Additionally, these plants possess thorny or spiny foliage, adding to their allure.

This type of ornamental plant is typically grown in USDA Hardiness Zones 9-11. In colder climates, it can be grown in a pot and moved indoors during cold weather. The plant will require regular watering, although it should only be done when the soil is dry.

Overall, the Dyckia remotiflora is an easy-to-care-for plant that is sure to add a splash of color and texture to any indoor or outdoor space. Its unique foliage and array of colorful blossoms will bring a brightness and vibrancy to any home or garden.

A small, slow growing shrub that can reach 2-5 feet tall by 3 feet wide with many spiny, short-lived leaves. It produces lantern shaped, berry-like flowers, yellow, orange in late spring that are attractive to butterflies and hummingbirds. Dyckias are best grown in USDA Zone 9-11 in full sun or semi-shade and with moderately low water requirements. They seed freely, so the ground beneath them can become quite crowded with seedlings that can be transplanted. For growing in regions with colder climates, they can be grown indoors in an unheated area and can also be kept in pots, either indoors or out. When outside they will benefit from a winter wind break or protection from frost. When grown in pots, care should be taken to empty trays after watering and ensure they do not sit in water. They should also be placed in a sunny location to ensure their survival. Dyckia have an attractive foliage greatly amplifying the beauty of any landscape. A combination of their full sun or light shade needs, attractive appearance and low maintenance requirements make them ideal for growing in any sunny area, making them a great addition for any garden.

Guzmania is a genus of evergreen bromeliads in the Bromeliaceae family, native to tropical regions of the Americas, with greatest diversity in Central and South America. Most species are epiphytes growing on trees in humid forests, although some grow terrestrially. They form rosettes of smooth, strap-shaped leaves that collect water in a central cup. The true flowers are usually small and short-lived, while the surrounding showy bracts may remain colorful for many weeks or even months. Modern horticulture has transformed Guzmania into one of the most popular indoor bromeliads, with numerous cultivars and hybrids selected for compact growth and brilliant red, orange, yellow, pink, or bicolored bracts.

Guzmanias grow best in bright filtered light, warm temperatures, and moderate to high humidity. Use a loose, well-drained bromeliad or epiphytic mix and avoid keeping the roots constantly wet; a small amount of fresh water may be maintained in the central cup and replaced regularly. After flowering, the original rosette gradually dies but normally produces offsets that can be separated and grown on. Outdoors, Guzmania is suitable mainly for frost-free tropical climates, approximately USDA Zones 10b-11, while elsewhere it is primarily grown as a container or houseplant.

Hechtia sp., also known as False Agave, is a plant native to Mexico and can be found in USDA Hardiness Zones 9-11. It is also a popular choice for xeriscaping due to its drought tolerant nature and attractive foliage and blooms.Hechtia sp. is a versatile large shrub, typically reaching a height of 5 to 10 feet tall and wide. In some varieties, it is also a small shrub reaching 2 to 5 feet tall and wide.

Whether you are looking for a bit of height or a compact shrub, Hechtia sp. will be a great addition to the garden. Following a few basic guidelines will ensure ideal growing conditions and maximum flower production. Hechtia sp. grows best in either full sun to semi-shade, and requires moderate watering once it is established. Too much sun or water can lead to root rot.

Hechtia sp.. is a great choice for gardeners who want a bit of protection at the same time. A few varieties of this shrub have thorny or spiny foliage, making it a great choice for creating a bit of a barrier. Once established, Hechtia sp. is a low-maintenance shrub that will require very minimal care. Pruning should be done only when necessary and be sure to leave some of the tips at the branches for it to maintain its growth.

The appeal of Hechtia sp. lies not only in its tough, easy-to-grow constitution, but its attractive blooms as well. It boasts either pink or white to off-white flowers depending on the variety. These flowers appear in the summer months, providing a beautiful and textural contrast to its bright green foliage. Summer is also the ideal time to take extra good care of your Hechtia sp. as they are growing vigorously during this period.

For gardeners living in cooler areas, Hechtia sp. can be grown in a container in a sunny spot indoors over the winter months. Be sure to keep the soil lightly moist and the plant pruned to encourage more blooming and growth. Once temperatures are warmer, you can transplant it into the ground or continue to grow it in a pot for easy transportation.

Hechtia sp. is a lovely shrub for gardeners of all levels and climates, creating a beautiful landscape as well as a hint of protection or privacy. With just a few basic care guidelines and adding this large shrub to your garden, soon you will be able to enjoy the colorful blooms and prideful feeling of success that comes with growing this False Agave.

Distinctive shape and vibrant colors of Hohenbergia pennae make it an eye-catching addition to any home. Its dark inflorescence with green berries also add to its appeal. Care for the Hohenbergia is relatively straightforward. Place it in an area that receives plenty of indirect sunlight, water moderately but allow the soil to dry out in between watering and feed it regularly with a balanced liquid fertilizer. Pruning can be done to shape and give the Hohenbergia the desired look. All in all, the Hohenbergia is a stunning and easy to grow foliageplant that will add a unique and unusual touch to any home.

Hohenbergia pennae is a small shrub native to Brazil, usually between 2-5 ft in height, with attractive bronzy red leaves that can reach several inches in length. It has a distinguishing bottle-shaped structure with a bulbous base, constricted neck and flaring top, and tannish-green color that darkens with age and is suffused with dark spots. Its dark inflorescence with green berries adds to its appeal, making it a highly ornamental foliage plant.

The Hohenbergia is relatively easy to care for - it prefers warm climates and semi-shade to full sun. When placed in an area with plenty of indirect sunlight and watered moderately, allowing the soil to dry out in between, it requires only moderate amounts of water and regular feeding with liquid fertilizer. Pruning can also help to shape and enhance its appearance. Although it does best outdoors in warm climates, it is also an easy to grow houseplant that can tolerate temperatures as low as 20 F.

All in all, the Hohenbergia is a stunning and easy to care for foliage plant that will add a unique and unusual touch to your home. Whether grown outdoors or indoors, it is sure to create a conversation piece with its striking shape and vibrant color.

Neoregelia is a genus of bromeliads celebrated for its colorful foliage, compact growth habit, and ease of cultivation as both houseplants and tropical landscape plants.

Native primarily to the rainforests of eastern Brazil, Neoregelia species are epiphytic or terrestrial plants that form broad rosettes of strap-shaped leaves. Unlike many bromeliads grown mainly for their flowers, neoregelias are prized for their foliage, which may be green, red, burgundy, pink, purple, yellow, or variously banded, spotted, and variegated. Many cultivars develop their most intense coloration in bright light.

A distinctive feature of the genus is the dramatic color change that occurs in the center of the rosette before flowering. The inner leaves often turn vivid shades of red, pink, or purple, while the small flowers emerge from the water-holding central cup. After flowering, the mother plant gradually produces offsets, or "pups," which continue the growth cycle.

Neoregelias thrive in bright filtered light and well-drained growing media. They can be grown in containers, mounted on branches, or incorporated into tropical gardens. Regular watering of the central cup and good air circulation promote healthy growth, while excessive cold should be avoided.

USDA Plant Hardiness Zones: 10-11. Most species prefer temperatures above 50F and are commonly grown as houseplants or greenhouse specimens in cooler climates.

Plant epiphytic or saxicolous, stemless, propagating by short basal rhizomes. When cultivated as an epiphyte the plants are mounted on a piece of bark or a branch and the roots are wrapped in Sphagnum moss.