"I received the parcel yesterday - all the plants are beautiful. It is great to be able to have the opportunity to get such a variety and high quality direct from the grower...rather than searching limited stock at nurseries. Fingers crossed Harry the Lab stays away from the Alcantarea!"
Regards, Kim
NSW
Hi to all our Subscribers
We are closed from Tuesday 21stDecember 2021 to Tuesday 4th January 2022.
Will respond to all emails when open again.
We wish you all the very best for Christmas & the New Year.
With kind regards,
Bob & True Grant
RM & T Grant P/L
14 Sherringtons Lane
The Pocket NSW 2483
P 02 6684 5374
email: plants@ausbroms.com.au
Orthophytum is a genus in the Bromeliaceae (Bromeliad) family & the subfamily Bromelioideae.
The genus was named by Beer in 1854 from the Greek ‘ortho’ meaning straight & ‘phytum’ meaning plant, referring to the erect inflorescence (flower spike).
Due to recent advances in technology & DNA testing, many of the original Orthophytum species & cultivars have been reclassified under new genera (see list at the end).
There are currently 67 species listed in the Bromeliad Taxon List & 49 cultivars in the Bromeliad Cultivar Register.
Orthophytum are semi succulent plants with considerable variation within the species. Some have attractive banding on the leaves. All species have white flowers & stiff, green or copper coloured fleshy leaves with soft spines which enable them to slow transpiration in order to keep the leaves cool in bright sunlight & also survive the driest parts of the year. The few leaves are arranged in a rosette form & don’t hold water in the centre.
Habitat
All Orthophytum species are endemic to the Atlantic Forest biome in south eastern Brazil (see map) in the states of Alagoas, Bahia, Espirito Santo, Minas Gerais, Paraiba & Pernambuco.
They are all terrestrial (growing in the ground) & most are also rupicolous (growing on or among rocks). They are found growing in clumps into the cracks & fissures of rocks or high on granite cliff faces above streams, frequently at high altitudes, with constant seepage often providing dampness to the well-developed fibrous roots which absorb water & nutrients.
Overall, Orthophytum are hardy & require little attention. They are cold tolerant & some are able to tolerate full sun as well as frost.
Temperature / Humidity
In their natural habitat, the roots are continually provided moisture through seepage. They prefer cool to medium temperatures in the range of 10 °C – 24 °C. However, they will tolerate higher or lower temperatures, with some able to tolerate full sun & frost. They need good light, air circulation & adequate moisture.
Light
Bright filtered light to full sun (if slowly adapted). Will not tolerate low light.
Water
Water again when the potting mix has almost dried out (i.e. don’t let the potting mix completely dry out especially for prolonged periods). So water more frequently in the warmer months & less in the cooler times of the year.
Fertiliser
Use a fertiliser higher in potassium (K) than nitrogen (N). Controlled release can be used (applied when potting up to promote growth & when flowering to promote offsets) &/or foliar fertiliser (on a regular basis) – both used at ½ strength.
Potting Mix & Pots
Orthophytum need a rich, free draining potting mix with more ‘humus’ than the standard bromeliad mix. A succulent mix is suitable.
They also need a generous pot size.
Flowering
When they flower, the stem of most Orthophytum elongate & the leaves stretch up along the stem. Small white flowers are produced. If left on the plant, the stem (scape) will bend with the weight of the offsets & if left, some of these offsets will root & grow.
Reproduction
Orthophytum reproduce by producing offsets at the base of the plant or at the end of the flower spike or on the floral bracts. When there are visible roots, remove & repot.
Orthophytum species readily cross pollinate to produce viable seed though the progeny can be unpredictable.
Name Changes
Due to recent advances in technology and DNA testing in 2017 many of the original Orthophytum species and cultivars have been reclassified under new genera:
Hybrids
Orthophytum ‘Andrea’ is now Sincoraea ‘Andrea’
Orthophytum ‘Blaze’ is now xSincorphytum ‘Blaze’
Species
Orthophytum albopicta is now Sincoraea albopicta
Orthophytum amoena is now Sincoraea amoena
Orthophytum burle-marxii is now Sincoraea burle-marxii
Orthophytum hatschbachii is now Sincoraea hatschbachii
Orthophytum heleniceae is now Sincoraea heleniceae
Orthophytum humilis is now Sincoraea humilis
Orthophytum mucugensis is now Sincoraea mucugensis
Orthophytum navioides is now Sincoraea navioides
Orthophytum ophiuroides is now Sincoraea ophiuroides
Orthophytum rafaelii is now Sincoraea rafaelii
Orthophytum ulei is now Sincoraea ulei
Copper Penny
Orthophytum Fire and Ice
Orthophytum Glabrum
Orthophytum HarleyiF
Orthophytum Iron Ore
Orthophytum Roberto Menescal
Orthophytum Saxicola
Orthophytum Warren Loose
Orthophytum What
The Bromeliad Genus Cryptanthus
(‘Earth Stars’)
by True Grant
Introduction
Cryptanthus is a genus of flowering plants in the family Bromeliaceae (Bromeliads), subfamily Bromelioideae. The name is derived from the Greek word cryptos, which means hidden, & anthos, meaning flower.
Cryptanthus species are predominantly native to eastern Brazil, in coastal areas as well as in forests up to 2000 metres. Some grow well in humid, shady places & others grow in dry, bright locations, but only a few species will tolerate full sunlight.
There are currently 56 species listed on the Bromeliad Taxon List & over 1200 cultivars listed on the Bromeliad Cultivar Register.
Photo below: Cryptanthus ‘Marion Oppenheimer’ 
These attractive, colourful bromeliads have a shapely rosette made up of leaves with serrated, wavy edges. The accumulation of trichomes in silvery shades creates an amazing pattern on the reddish-brown or green leaf surface which gives the species & hybrids an interesting & vivid appearance. Most have low spreading rosettes with about 10-12 leaves which are often mottled & striped with many unusual colours such as brown, rose, silver, copper, grey, green, pink, white & red or a combination of these colours. The flowers, which barely emerge from the centre of the plant, are usually white, rarely pink or greenish.
Species in this genus often grow spread out over the ground like small ‘earth stars’ which is often how they are referred to by bromeliad enthusiasts.
Potting
In their natural habitat Cryptanthus are true terrestrials (growing in the ground) & a few are saxicolous (growing among rocks). They have never been observed as epiphytes (living in trees) & should not be mounted on wood or in trees. They need to be planted in pots or in the ground.
Photo below: Cryptanthus acaulis Variegated 
When potted, they should not be under-potted. Their roots tends to grow sideways rather than downwards & thus develop a root system at least equal to the width of the mature plant. So a 130mm to 160mm squat pot is suggested for most Cryptanthus to promote root growth & to conserve the moisture the plant requires. The smaller varieties can be potted in smaller pots that equate to their mature width.
The potting medium should be a loose, porous mixture with some humus similar to African Violet mix to replicate the rich moist soil in which they usually grow. Some options are an African Violet mix, a good quality potting mix or a mixture of peat & sand & perlite.
If planted in the ground, the soil need to be free draining.
Watering
Cryptanthus should not be allowed to dry out. Leaf die back can indicate lack of water. However, lack of adequate drainage in the potting medium or soil can cause the plant to rot.
Fertilising
Although it is not necessary to fertilise your Cryptanthus, you must do so to obtain maximum growth & colour.
A controlled release granular fertiliser combined into the potting mix shows excellent results. Use one that is recommended for African Violets or Orchids (higher in potassium K than nitrogen N). All fertilisers will show the N:P:K ratio.
Soluble fertilisers can also be used instead of or combined with controlled release fertilisers. Use dilute solutions, even to ¼ of the recommended strength. I also use a higher potassium than nitrogen soluble fertiliser (as for flowering plants / Orchids / African violets) but there are others who recommend a balanced nitrogen & potassium fertiliser.
Light
There are Cryptanthus that will grow in any light conditions you may have. C. beuckeri is a low light plant & many of its hybrids (e.g. C. ‘Osyanus’) like to be shaded, moist & humid (this makes them ideal for terrariums). Species such as C. bahianus & the hybrid C. ‘Cascade’ can take full sun, but the plants are happier in diffused light.
For maximum colour in most Cryptanthus, bright, filtered light is necessary. Too much light will cause bleached spots on the foliage or a leathery, stressed look to the plant. In extreme cases, sunburn spots or holes will occur. On the other extreme, weak foliage & greening of colour suggests that the plant needs more light.
Acclimatise your plants to grow in as much light as possible in the area you have set aside for them, a spot that is sheltered from the cold & winter rains would be desirable. This may be a shade house, outside with filtered light or in a window garden. Fluorescent light intensifies colour – this makes them an excellent office plant.
Temperature
Cryptanthus are comfortable in temperatures that human beings prefer i.e. 15 – 28 degrees C.
Most Cryptanthus can survive in temperatures just above freezing as long as they are kept drier during winter, but they will not look their best. Some can even survive winter outside if a heavy mulch is used & watering is cut back in Autumn to allow the plants to harden off. Severe leaf damage may result but the mulch protects the roots & Spring brings on abundant offsets.
Photo below: Cryptanthus ‘Ruby' ’
At the other extreme, they can tolerate temperatures as high as 38 degrees C as long as there is adequate humidity, good air circulation & the mix is not allowed to dry out.
Cryptanthus are easy to grow outside in temperate regions where there are no frosts or cold winter temperatures & make exotic garden plants. They seem to do well when grown outside in QLD & similar latitudes, but in Sydney & regions further south, they need protection from the cold & winter rains.
Humidity
Most Cryptanthus enjoy humid conditions both inside & outside the home. This can be achieved by frequent misting, setting the pots over water or grouping together. Setting the pots over water with capillary matting does a great deal to increase humidity & maintain moisture.
Cryptanthus will grow in well-lit bathrooms or above the kitchen sink where the humidity is usually greater.
Insects & Disease
Cryptanthus are relatively pest free. If you encounter scale, use a systemic insecticide following all the safety precautions & do not use in high temperatures. There are various natural treatments which can be accessed online.
Blooming
As with most bromeliads, the parent plant only blooms once in a lifetime & dies after producing offsets (pups). Although the name Cryptanthus means hidden flower, you are rewarded at maturity with a bouquet of delicate flowers. Different species & hybrids flower at different times of the year.
Photo below: Cryptanthus Red Throat' 
Offsets (Pups)
Your Cryptanthus will produce offsets before or immediately after blooming. These normally come from between the leaves, from woody stolons or from the base of the plant.
Offsets may be left on the mother plant for multiple growth or may be removed when ready (about 1/3 the size of the mother plant) with a slight twist & tug. The pup will release easily when it is ready.
Some plants release their own offsets when they are sufficiently mature.
Don’t be alarmed that there are no roots on the offset. In nature the offset will roll to a new location or will take root in the decaying humus of the mother plant thus forming clumps or mats.
Photo below: Cryptanthus ‘High Voltage’ 
Your plant will root easily in your potting medium. Make a small depression, insert the short stem & press the mixture around it (easier if the medium is wet). Stake the plant if necessary to keep it from moving. An elastic band is also useful (of the appropriate size) for holding the offset in the mix. It is essential that the plant feels secure for an extra fast start & good growth.
The Bromeliad Genus Acanthostachys
by True Grant
The genus Acanthostachys (pronounced a - cantho - steak - is, meaning thorny spike) was described by Klotzsch in 1840 and amended by W. Rauh & W. Barthlott in 1982.
This genus has only two species: strobilacea (meaning cone like fruit) and pitcairnioides (meaning resembling Pitcairnia).
The plant is native to central & south- eastern Brazil, Paraguay and northern Argentina.
Acanthostachys strobilacea:
Growing high in trees in tropical rain forests or clinging to granite peaks at moderate to high elevations, its leaves are long (they reach 50 to 90cm in length), dull green to reddish brown depending on light intensity, & whip like in appearance with serrated edges. An attractive long-lasting inflorescence develops in the leaf axils at maturity, resembling a tiny pineapple with orange - red bracts & yellow petals. Photos Below: Acanthostachys strobilacea
It has been in cultivation since before 1850 & withstands extremely rigorous conditions including drought, cold, low light and full sun. It maintains a steady popularity with collectors and exhibitors & has reached head table on several occasions at bromeliad shows.
This plant is nearly always self-fertile and the relatively large seed germinates readily. It is best grown in a hanging basket and allowed to clump, which it does freely.
Careful ! The leaves are well armed and the long, thin leaves tend to tangle.
Acanthostachys pitcairnioides:
This species was first described by Mez, and in 1982 W. Rauh & W. Barthlott amended the description of the genus and the two species. Rauh’s description was based on a specimen collected in Domingos Martins, Espirito Santo, Brazil.
This newer species is now often seen in collections and in shows. In full sun, the leaves turn dark red with a lacquered shine. The prominent black teeth and small, brilliant blue flowers at the base of the leaves make a striking and beautiful contrast.
This species, which forms clumps very easily, is about 40 cm tall and is a desirable addition to any bromeliad collection. It has a more upright habit than Acanthostachys strobilacea & a short stemmed inflorescence.
Because of their form, both species grow well in hanging pots with a free draining potting mix.
They both do well in bright filtered light or under 50% shade cloth all year round.
Some growers prefer full sun to get maximum colour & some in this situation use a sandy, heavier mix.
They grow well with little water.
Use a very small amount of high potassium fertiliser or none at all.
Recent Changes to Bromeliad Genera
There has been a massive, complicated study (2016) of the Tillandsioideae subfamily which has significantly altered the genera in this group.
The study was titled ‘Taxonomic Revision of the Bromeliaceae subfam. Tillandsioideae based on a multi-locus DNA sequence phylogeny & morphology’.
Authors were Michael Barfuss (Austria), Walter Till (Austria), Elton Leme (Brazil), Juan Pinzon (Mexico), Jose Manzanares (Ecuador), Heidemarie Halbritter (Austria), Rosabelle Samuel (Austria) & Gregory Brown (USA).
The 2016 Study involved phylogenetic DNA studies ie DNA analysis was used to determine the relationships of these plants in terms of their evolution. In simple terms the species were grouped (in clades) according to their genetic sequencing. Phylogeny is based on the assumption that more closely related species evolve with similar genetic sequencing & physical characteristics.
Morphological analysis was also used (study of form & structure of the bromeliads) – habitat, habit - leaf formation, central tank formation, & analysis of petals / ovaries / stigma / pollen / seeds.
In essence – three existing genera (Tillandsia, Vriesea & Mezobromelia) in the Tillandsioideae subfamily have been split into smaller groups.
The new genera that have been created in the Tillandsioideae subfamily are:
Barfussia : Named in honour of Michael Harald Johannes Barfuss from Vienna, Austria who has contributed enormously to the understanding of the DNA of Bromeliaceae, especially of the Tillandsioideae. He was a prime author of the 2016 Paper.
These bromeliads have an unusual stigma type (convolute [rolled up longitudinally] – obconic [inverted cone shaped])
Habitat: Andes – Ecuador to Brazil
Goudaea: Named in honour of Eric John Gouda from Utrecht, The Netherlands who is a long term researcher in bromeliads & one of the authors of the 2016 Paper.
Habitat: Colombia to Central Peru
Gregbrownia: Named in honour of Gregory K Brown, Professor of Botany at the University of Wyoming, Laramie, USA – one of the authors of the 2016 Paper. He has done much work on stigma structure in the bromeliad family.
Habitat: Andes of northern Peru & Ecuador
Jagrantia: Named in honour of Jason Grant.
Habitat: Costa Rica to Colombia
Josemania: Named in honour of Jose Manuel Manzanares Vilaplana from Quito, Ecuador, leading authority of Ecuadorian Bromeliaceae - one of the authors of the 2016 Paper.
Habitat: Costa Rica, Panama, Colombia, Ecuador & Peru.
Lemeltonia: Named after Elton Martinez Carvalho Leme from Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, leading authority on Brazilian bromeliads & one of the authors of the 2016 Paper.
Habitat: Central America to Peru extending to Eastern Venezuela & the Guiana’s.
Lutheria: Named in honour of Harry Edward Luther (1952 - 2012)from Sarasota, Florida, one of the most experienced bromeliophiles in the world & an author of the 2016 Paper.
Habitat: North Eastern South America
Pseudalcantarea: Named for resembling the flowers of Alcantarea.
Habitat: Mexico to Nicaragua
Stigmatodon: The name of this new genus comes from the Greek word stigmatis plus odon, the latter meaning tooth, in reference to the irregularly denticulate to lacinate ('toothed') stigma lobe margins.
Habitat: South Eastern Brazil
Wallisia: This genus name first showed up in 1870 but was not accepted. These species have an unusual stigma type, identified in the 2016 Study, the only species identified with this type so far.
Habitat: Ecuador & Peru with W. anceps growing in other areas
Zizkaea: Named in honour of Georg Zizka, Professor of Botany at the Goethe-Universitat, Frankfurt/Main, Germany, who has much contributed to the understanding of the phylogeny of Bromeliaceae.
Habitat: Greater Antilles
Waltillia: Named in honour of Dr Walter Till who is an Austrian botanist & bromeliad specialist at the Vienna University.
*NOTE: These new genera have involved not only the species but also the related cultivars & intergenerics. Some of the cultivars are now a cross between two different genera & thus have changed to an intergeneric. Some have reversed from an intergeneric to a cultivar & some have changed intergeneric name.
The new genera that have been created in the Bromelioideae subfamily are:
Sincoraea: There has been the re -establishment of the genus Sincoraea in the Bromelioideae subfamily with 11 Orthophytums now Sincoraea. This has also impacted on the x Neophytum many of which are now x Sincoregelia.
Wittmackia: This new genus has also been established in the subfamily Bromelioideae.
Whilst all of this seems very complicated – one of the main tasks we have to undertake as bromeliad growers is to go through the lists detailing the bromeliads that have changed genera & note the bromeliads that we own; note the new genus name; then rename our plants.
Keep a note on the plant tab of the old genus for reference incl for plants sales. Most growers will only have a few of the plants listed so the task should not be too onerous.
THE LISTS DETAILING THE CHANGES ARE TOO LONG FOR THIS WEBSITE NEWSLETTER & THUS WILL BE EMAILED TO ALL CURRENT NEWSLETTER SUBSCRIBERS.
IF YOU WOULD LIKE A COPY - PLEASE EMAIL ME & REQUEST ONE.
Bromeliad Societies in Australia
Involvement in these societies is a great way to socialise with other bromeliad enthusiasts & also a great source of information & sharing of knowledge & experience. Bob & I belong to the Gold Coast Succulent & Bromeliad Society which combines interest in bromeliads & succulents. It meets every 4th Saturday in the month (except December) at the Helensvale Community Centre, 31 Discovery Drive, Helensvale (Gold Coast). You can attend initially as a visitor if you wish. Information is at www.gcsbs.org.au
We also belong to the Bromeliad Society of Queensland but can't get to meetings due to the distance. Their website is bromsqueensland.com.au
A list of Bromeliad Societies in Australia can be seen at www.bromeliad.org.au/Contacts/BromSocs.htm
Quilling in Bromeliads
What is It?
Quilling is a problem many of us face in the cultivation of bromeliads where the inner leaves roll up into a tube. This occurs when the natural gums secreted by the leaves of some bromeliad species is not softened by humidity or washed off by adequate watering or rain. The gum causes the leaves to stick together instead of separating as they grow, resulting in a tight, often wrinkled tubular shape. The genera most susceptible are guzmanias & vrieseas.
Prevention
Maintain high humidity & regularly flush the plant out with water to thoroughly wash it out.
Treatment
The Bromeliad Genus Quesnelia (kwes-nail-ea)
by True Grant
This Genus which belongs to the subfamily Bromelioideae was named after Martin Quesnel, a French Consul at Cayenne, French Guiana, who was responsible for introducing the plants into cultivation in France around 1840. The first was probably Q. arvensis which is the earliest listed of the species.
There are currently 18 species listed & 6 hybrids.
HABITAT
Quesnelias are native to the central coastal regions of Brazil & can be epiphytic, terrestrial or saxicolous.
They can be found in the mountains bordering the coastal plains up to 1500 metres.
Closer to the coast in swampy lowlands, with some tree cover, are the larger species with rosette shape & tanks to hold water.
Growing in the tropical sun in view of the ocean are species somewhere between the two. Growing in fine, white sand over thin layers of leaf mould, these can be found scattered over the dune areas, appearing to be almost indestructible.
FORM
The genus is composed of two major groups.
1) The first group is tubular, few leaved, & they resemble Billbergias (examples are: Q. humilis, Q. lateralis, Q. marmorata & Q. liboniana).
2) The second group is composed of large rosette shaped plants with very stiff leaves often grey barred on the underside (examples are: Q. arvensis, Q. quesneliana & Q. testudo).
The spined leaves occur in a variety of rosette forms as above except Q. marmorata which has distichous leaves.
The number of leaves varies from 4 to 40+ & they are green for most species.
The inflorescence is rather fleeting, lasting about two weeks. The forms & colours can be stunning in their beauty & more than make their existence worthwhile.
LIGHT: Bright light to full sun, but will tolerate areas of low light.
WATER: Moderate
TEMPERATURE: Many need warmth & protection from frosts. The higher altitude species are the easiest to grow in areas of definite winters eg Q. liboniana.
POTTING MIX : Free draining
Quesnelia liboniana: This species develops ample stolons & has a narrow, tubular rosette. It can be mounted or grown in a pot/ basket. If placed at the base of a tree it will slowly climb up its new host. In habitat this species grows low in trees or on rock outcrops. Its flowers are navy & orange, an exotic combination.
Quesnelia marmorata (below): Is hardy & very adaptable to mounting. It has a tube like form & the leaves are heavily marbled maroon on grey-green. The slightly pendant inflorescence has rose pink bracts & china blue petals.
Quesnelia lateralis (below): Is named because of the habit of flowering from the base. It likes bright, filtered light, its leaves are green & the inflorescence has flame red bracts & ming blue petals.
Quesnelia humilis (below): Has a tubular form with green foliage. It is easy to grow in medium to bright filtered light. With offsets on stolons, it adapts well to hanging pot or basket, mounting, or grown over rocks in a rockery. The bracts are brilliant red & the petals are bright cerise.
Quesnelia quesneliana (below): This is the largest member of this genus. It grows well in bright, filtered light for more compact growth, but adapts well to medium light. In habitat it grows in full tropical sun close to the ocean. There are decorative white bands on the leaf underside. The large inflorescence, with no obvious stem, is cylinder shaped & is deep rose to red in colour. The layered bracts appear like crimped crepe paper. The petals are mauve with white edge, blue or pink.
Quesnelia arvensis (below): Likes the same situation as Q. quesneliana. In habitat, it grows in moist, swampy areas. Appearance is similar to Q. quesneliana.
Quesnelia testudo (below): Grows in coastal scrub at sea level & offsets on obvious stolons. It has a less open rosette & more rounded inflorescence on an obvious stem.
Quesnelia indecora (below): Has a flat topped inflorescence with red floral bracts, pink sepals & purple petals. It clumps well.
Quesnelia edmundoi v. rubrobracteata (below): This moderately large species, which looks like an Aechmea, was only discovered in 1961. When grown in good light – the leaves are an attractive maroon.
Quesnelia ‘Tim Plowman’ (below): Named by Harry Luther in 1983, it’s a cv. of Q. marmorata with recurled leaves.
Quesnelia ‘Farro’ (below): A variegated Q. testudo named by person unknown.
Quesnelia ‘Rafael Oliveira’ (below): Named by Chester Skotak, this variegated form of Q. marmorata was found by Rafael Oliveira de Faria in Brazil in 1995.
Q. arvensis, Q. quesneliana & Q. testudo are similar species & relatively difficult to tell apart. All have a cone like inflorescence with bright pink floral bracts. Here are some differences:
Q. arvensis has heavily textured dark green leaves with more pronounced spines than Q. testudo. The floral bracts have flat & uniform margins & cobwebby covering.
Q. quesneliana has a flower head longer & thinner than the other two. Its floral bracts are elongated & wrinkled along the edges & the base has a white woolly covering.
Q. testudo has leaves that are more bayonet shaped, an inflorescence that is more rounded & open & spines on the lower scape bracts.
*Many photos are my own - some have been accessed from other sources for educational purposes only.
Another year had flown by with its highs & lows & challenges. True continues to enjoy the Bromeliad Judges Schools run very efficiently by Narelle Aizlewood in Brisbane. The next one is in fact tomorrow. Bob is still immersed in his foliage vriesea hybridising & a few plants are turning out ok.
The main topic for this newsletter is the genus Nidularium. However first there are a few short notes.
POTTING MIX: We are now adding coal ash as a source of silicon (see Newsletter No 15). So the basics of our mix are now - Pine bark 60%, coco chips 20%, coco peat 10% & coal ash 10%.
ANANAS 'Lava Burst': We brought this brom back from David Fell in Hawaii & was told it was called 'Lava Flow'. However David has now registered this same bromeliad as 'Lava Burst'. So we have changed the name accordingly. Whoever has bought this plant from us will need to do the same.
WAVELL HEIGHTS EXTRAVAGANZA: The next show is being held on Saturday 28th February 2015 (8-3) & Sunday 1st March (9-2) at the Wavell Heights Community Hall, 175 Edinburgh Castle Road, Wavell Heights, Brisbane. Lots of broms for sale for the collector & the gardener. Off street parking & refreshments available. Look forward to seeing those of you who can attend.
EXPLANATION OF BROMELIAD TERMS: We are going to include some meanings in each newsletter. It's quite interesting to know why a bromeliad has a particular name or description. Will only list the more common terms.
albo-marginate: a form of variegation where the edge of the leaf is white
alpestris: growing in mountains; alpine
amoena: beautiful; charming; pleasing
ampullacea: flask or bottle shaped
aquilega: resembling an eagle; aquiline
arvensis: pertaining to cultivated fields
aurantiacum: orange coloured
biflora: two flowered
bituminosa: sticky
bromeliifolia: with leaves like those of the genus
capitata: formed like a head; aggregated into a very dense/compact cluster
capitate: forming a rounded head
carcharodon: with shark like teeth
cordate: heart shaped
crypt-, crypto-: hidden; covered; concealed
The Bromeliad Genus Nidularium
These beautiful bromeliads are often overlooked by collectors which is a pity because they are attractive, varied & wonderful for landscaping in shady conditions.
The genus Nidularium belongs to the sub-family Bromelioideae & was named in 1854 by Charles-Antoine Lemaire, a French botanist. The name is taken from the Latin 'nidus' meaning 'nest'.
This is a small genus consisting of around 45 currently recognised species, all native to Eastern Brazil where they grow on the ground or on lower limbs of trees in shadowy, humid rainforests. There are around 54 registered hybrids.
Nidularium usually have a flat to semi-erect rosette with a tank in the plant's centre which stores a limited amount of water. They are compact, medium to large plants with mostly shiny, soft foliage & fine spines. They often have fragile, very soft leaves that are easily damaged by wind, insects or other broms. They vary in colour from lime green to dark purple & can be spotted, striped (longitudinal) or plain green.
A rosette of shortened inner leaves forms before flowering. The inflorescence has large, colourful primary bracts which often rise only slightly above the central leaves (eg Nidularium longiflorum). However the stem can be taller placing it well above the central foliage (eg Nidularium procerum). The small three-petaled flowers nestle in the bracts & are white, red, purple, blue, yellow or rose depending on the species.
Temperature: They are tropical plants whose natural habitat is humid rain forests in Brazil. They prefer temperatures in the range of 12 degrees C to 30 degrees C & need protection in winter, particularly from frosts. They also need good air circulation so don't crowd them in your shade house.
Light: They will tolerate the lowest light conditions of all bromeliads, but don't put them in too dark a spot because the leaves will become strappy. During summer most like to be grown under 90% shadecloth, & 70% for the rest of the year. They adapt well to indoors as long as they get bright indirect light.
Fertiliser: Use a controlled release fertiliser that is higher in potassium for those with coloured leaved (eg Nidularium 'Chantrieri') & a more balanced nitrogen & potassium for those with green leaves. We also use a foliar fertiliser fortnightly that is a little higher in potassium. As with all information re fertiliser, look at the results & adjust as necessary.
Water: Keep the potting mix moist but not soggy. As a guide water thoroughly 2-3 x week in summer & less often in winter. Too much water can rot the plants.
Nidularium procerum
Kind Regards,
Bob & True Grant
At last time to formulate another Newsletter. It has been an exceptionally busy six months both on the home front & the nursery. Apologies to those to whom I have been promising this Newsletter for ages.
We've had a very warm start to winter this year - expect to get a cold snap soon. Already can't wait till Spring when the broms will start to grow & look happy again.
True is attending Bromeliad Judge's Schools which are most enjoyable & a great learning experience. Tip for cleaning plastic pots: Scrub any dirt & white salty residue off with a stiff wire brush & then do final clean with baby oil. This brings up the dirtiest of pots.
Fertilising Neoregelias & Aechmeas: We've given up on using controlled release fertiliser on our Minis Neoregelias. Growth is too long & lanky & plants are green. We get better results using a weak dose of very high potassium (very low nitrogen) foliar fertiliser fortnightly & less often in winter. For larger Neoregelias & most Aechmeas we use a small amount of controlled release plus weak high potassium foliar as for the minis. Keep in mind that others use a different regime & it's important to determine what works best for you in your situation.
The Bromeliad Genus Pitcairnia
Pitcairnias are often overlooked because their foliage is usually green & grass like. However during spring into summer their attractive brightly coloured flower spikes create great interest particularly when clumped which is their normal habit. We love them & are building up a collection which we will release as soon as we have enough stock. There are at least 30 species & hybrids cultivated in Australia.
The genus Pitcairnia belongs to the subfamily Pitcairnioideae & was named after Dr William Pitcairn, an English physician & gardener (1711-1791). It ranks as the second most prolific of the bromeliad family after Tillandsia with recorded species numbering well over 300.
Distribution:They are most abundant in Colombia, Peru & Brazil, but can be found in areas from Cuba & Mexico to Argentina. Most are terrestrial (grow in the ground) or saxicolous (grow on rocks & are called lithophytes) & prefer moist, shady areas. However they are occasionally found growing as epiphytes in trees. Pitcairnia includes the only species that is not native to the Americas. Pitcairnia feliciana grows on rocks & cliff faces in tropical French Guinea in West Africa. It is suspected that the plant found its way to Africa via seed dispersal by migratory birds. The species is small with very thin sparse leaves which have a few spines that increase towards the centre of the rosette.
Characteristics: Typically they form a clump that develops underground rhizomes. Pitcairnias have soft, drooping leaves, a few of which have small spines, while most are spineless. The leaves can be quite variable in length & shape. Some have several types of leaves on the one plant eg a deciduous species such as heterophylla. In that species the 'normal' leaves drop off at the start of the dry season to help conserve moisture. The short brown spikes that remain are a primitive type of leaf that contains no chlorophyll.
Pitcairnias send up tall, brightly coloured flower spikes with tubular flowers that project out at right angles. They are mostly pink, red or orange but sometimes yellow & white. While the flowers last only a day, the inflorescence is long lasting.
Propagation: They can be easily propagated from seed or, for many species, by detaching a piece of underground rhizome with roots attached. Other Pitcairnia form bulbous like growths that can be broken apart to provide new plants.
Temperature: Pitcairnia are native to generally mild climates & can be found in humid rain forests as well as more arid highlands. So they usually prefer moderate temperatures around 26 degrees C. Some can handle a bit of frost if protection is provided.
Light: They generally prefer moist but well drained, shady conditions, but can do well in dappled shade. They are unlikely to do well in situations that receive the full afternoon sun especially in summer. They can be grown indoors. Pitcairnia grow well under 50% shade cloth in winter & 75% for the rest of the year.
Pots & Potting Mix: They typically like bigger pots for their size than other bromeliads. Pitcairnia require the usual free draining potting mix yet need to be kept moist but not soggy. One suggestion is to put a small amount of sphagnum moss in the base of the pot & cover the surface with mulch, particularly in summer.
Water: Keep moist but not soggy. Water thoroughly at least three times a week in summer. Twice a week in winter should be enough except during periods of low humidity.
Fertiliser: Controlled release in or on top of the potting mix - higher potassium or potassium similar to nitrogen (rate as for indoor plants). We also use foliar with balanced N & K.
Pests: Generally pest free, but can be affected by mealy bug or aphids. Grasshoppers can attack young leaves.
Below is a photo of Pitcairnia hitchcockiana
We hope this stimulates your interest in Pitcairnias if you are not already hooked.
With kind regards,
True & Bob
At last another newsletter. It has been an exceptionally busy year both in the nursery & personally.
The main topic for this newsletter is about Seasol which is a plant conditioner used by many brom growers. See article below this newsletter. It's worth reading to become aware of the advantages as well as precautions about its use for bromeliads.
Whilst talking to various brom growers, we are always picking up new information & I would like to share some of this with you:
Mini Neoregelias
We have advocated growing them hard (without fertiliser) as is recommended by Grace Goode & others. We did fertilise our minis on one occasion, with a high potassium controlled release fertiliser, & ended up with green plants & long, green pups which took a generation to grow out. However, I gave a talk about mini neos recently for which I researched information. I learned that Rob & Rosie Kelly (who specialise in neo minis) & Margaret Patterson (well known hybridiser) both fertilise their minis with a tiny amount of controlled release. Margaret says 'otherwise they sit & sulk'. Looking back, we probably used too much fertiliser. We are now trying an 1/8 teaspoon on a few & will monitor results. The bottom line is that if you fertilise your minis, use a very small amount of high potassium formula. * Already I have noticed that Neo Mini Chiquita Linda has gone green - so will be more selective in the future.
Pitcairnias
We had a wonderful day earlier this year visiting George Stamatis who lives just north of Brisbane. George imports rare bromeliads & has a superb collection. He gave us a great tip for growing pitcairnias which need moist (well drained), shady conditions: Put some sphagnum moss in the bottom of the pot & cover the top with mulch.
Silicon
George Stamatis also mentioned the importance of supplying silicon for bromeliads whose spines contain this element. As there are reduced amounts of silicon in a soil less potting mix, this can be achieved by adding coal ash (mainly silicon dioxide) or sand (silicon dioxide). Our preference is coal ash which we have now added to our mix, as it is lighter & (we have been advised by our potting mix supplier horticulturalist) breaks down more quickly to supply the absorbable form of silicon which is monosilicic acid. This is taken up by the root system & moves upwards through the plant.
Documented Advantages of Silicon:
