Description
Neoregelia retrorsa is a spectacular and exceptionally rare species native to the Atlantic Forest habitats of Brazil. This large-growing collector’s prize develops a broad, imposing rosette featuring wide leaves that usually mature to around 22 to 26 inches across. Its foliage displays a fascinating pattern of light green leaves covered in dark green mottling, while the center develops beautiful splotches of reddish-pink and white tips. Framed by heavily armed, large black hooked spines along the leaf edges, this distinct variety grows best in bright, filtered light or shadier environments, making it a unique, low-maintenance centerpiece for decorative patio pottery or shaded landscape borders.
**Plant will ship bare-root**
How to Keep Your Neoregelia retrorsa Happy
Caring for these resilient plants is straightforward. Use these basic guidelines to maintain their unique mottling and keep your plant growing strong:
Step 1: Balance their sun exposure. Grow this variety in bright, filtered light or shadier environments. Always protect it from raw, direct midday or intense afternoon sun to prevent leaf burn.
Step 2: Water the central cup. Instead of watering the soil, pour clean water directly into the center “tank” or cup of the plant. Because sun exposure evaporates water a bit faster, check the cup regularly to ensure it stays filled, and flush it out every couple of weeks with fresh water to keep it clean.
Step 3: Keep the soil lightly damp. Occasionally give the soil some water just to keep it from drying out completely. Make sure your pots have excellent drainage so the roots never sit in soggy mud. If you are planting them directly in the ground, be sure to choose an area with great drainage where the soil won’t stay wet.
Step 4: Keep it warm. This tropical plant loves warmth. If you are growing it outdoors, to be safe just remember to bring it inside if the temperature drops below 50°F (10°C) or protect it from the cold or frost as much as possible.
Step 5: Fertilize sparingly (or not at all). We recommend using a well-balanced, slow-release fertilizer just once or twice a year. Be careful, though—too much fertilizer or nitrogen will cause the plant to lose its vibrant color and become leggy and stretched-out looking. In fact, some growers prefer not to fertilize at all to get the very best color from the plant!
