Overview
Pitcairnia heterophylla is a plant with a rosette-forming habit in the genus Pitcairnia, part of the Bromeliaceae family, with green foliage. Pitcairnia heterophylla grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates loam soils and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H1b. Suggested uses include indoor ornamental.
About
Pitcairnia heterophylla is a plant species in the genus Pitcairnia. This species is native to northern South America (Peru, Ecuador, Colombia, Venezuela), Central America, and central and southern Mexico. The species was first discovered on top of the Rock of Guatapé by a German scientist. Pitcairnia × daiseyana is a natural hybrid of P. heterophylla and P. pungens. Grow it in full sun and partial shade and loam soil. In UK gardens it needs subtropical warmth and glass protection in the UK (RHS H1b). It works well for indoor ornamental. It tolerates neutral soils, moist but well-drained conditions and south-facing and west-facing aspects. Plant in well-drained soil. Water during establishment.
Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Pitcairnia heterophylla
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Pitcairnia
- Sunlight
- Full sun, Partial shade
- Soil type
- Loam
- Soil pH
- Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H1b
Plant details
Pitcairnia heterophylla size, habit and characteristics
- Habit
- Rosette-forming
- Foliage
- Green
- Suggested uses
- Indoor ornamental
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Pitcairnia heterophylla
- Propagation
- Offsets, seeds
- Pest resistance
- Susceptible to mealybugs, scale insects
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-resistant
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Pitcairnia heterophylla?
Pitcairnia heterophylla prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Pitcairnia heterophylla need?
Pitcairnia heterophylla grows best in loam soil. It prefers neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
Is Pitcairnia heterophylla hardy in the UK?
Pitcairnia heterophylla has an RHS hardiness rating of H1b, meaning it needs subtropical warmth of 10–15°C and must be grown under glass in the UK.
How do I propagate Pitcairnia heterophylla?
Offsets, seeds.
