Aechmea Fasciata 'Red Form'

• Native to South American rainforests, this bromeliad grows as an epiphyte on trees in its natural habitat. The red form is a selected variety prized for its enhanced coloration.
• Forms a striking rosette of thick, leathery leaves with distinctive silver banding and red tinting. The architectural form adds tropical drama to any space.
• Produces a magnificent pink and blue flower spike that can last several months. After flowering, the main plant produces offsets before slowly declining.
• Popular with collectors for its reliable performance indoors and stunning visual impact. The red form is particularly sought after for its enhanced coloration over the standard green variety.

• Water when top inch of soil feels dry, filling the central cup with fresh water weekly. Empty old water to prevent stagnation and bacterial growth.
• Position in bright, indirect light such as near an east-facing window. Protect from harsh afternoon sun which can fade the red coloration.
• Use a well-draining potting mix designed for bromeliads or epiphytes. A mixture of bark, perlite, and peat works well for container growing.
• Feed with diluted liquid fertilizer monthly during active growing season from spring to summer. Apply to soil and spray lightly on leaves.
• Remove spent flower spikes by cutting at the base once blooms fade. Carefully separate and pot up offsets when they reach one-third the size of the parent.
• Maintain humidity above 50% using pebble trays or regular misting around the plant. Ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.
• In winter, reduce watering frequency and stop fertilizing as growth naturally slows in cooler temperatures and shorter days.

• Provide bright, indirect light near an east or north-facing window - avoid direct afternoon sun which can scorch leaves. Supplement with grow lights in darker rooms.
• Water the central cup and soil when top inch feels dry - empty and refill cup weekly with fresh water. Use filtered or rainwater when possible.
• Maintain 50-60% humidity with pebble trays, regular misting, or a humidifier. Group with other tropical plants to create a humid microclimate.
• Keep temperatures between 18-24°C year-round - protect from cold drafts and air conditioning vents. Move indoors during cooler months in temperate areas.
• Feed monthly with diluted liquid fertilizer during spring and summer - reduce to quarterly in autumn and winter when growth slows.

• Scale insects can appear on leaves - wipe with rubbing alcohol or use horticultural oil spray. Check regularly under leaves and in leaf joints.
• Root rot from overwatering causes brown, mushy roots - reduce watering and ensure excellent drainage. Repot in fresh, well-draining mix if severe.
• Brown leaf tips indicate low humidity or water quality issues - increase humidity and use filtered or rainwater. Mist around the plant regularly.
• Mealybugs hide in leaf crevices - dab with alcohol-soaked cotton buds and treat with insecticidal soap. Isolate infected plants immediately.