The Guide to Caring For Your:
Aechmea chantinii
Aechmea chantinii is a beautiful species of bromeliad, native to South America. With its bright pink bracts and green leaves, it makes for an attractive and low maintenance addition to any indoor plant collection.
Did you know that Aechmea chantinii is a member of the bromeliad family, and like all bromeliads, it is capable of collecting and storing water in its central cup? This ability to conserve water makes it well adapted to its native habitat in South America, where rainfall can be scarce.
Watering:
Aechmea chantinii does not require frequent watering, and in fact, too much water can lead to root rot. Fill the central cup of the plant with water and allow the roots to absorb what they need. Empty the cup and refill it with fresh water every 2-3 weeks. Do not water the foliage or allow it to sit in standing water.
Lighting:
This plant thrives in bright, indirect light, but can also tolerate some direct sunlight. Avoid placing it in a spot where it will receive direct, intense sunlight for long periods of time.
Humidity:
Aechmea chantinii does not require high humidity levels. Normal room humidity is sufficient for this plant.
Feeding:
Fertilize the plant every 2-3 months using a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer, mixed at half the recommended strength. Do not fertilize the plant when it is flowering, as this can damage the blooms.
Pests & Deficiencies:
Aechmea chantinii is generally a low maintenance plant, but can be susceptible to mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects. Check the plant regularly for pests and remove them manually or treat with an appropriate pesticide. If the plant's leaves start to yellow or wilt, it could be a sign of an iron deficiency. This can be treated with a foliar spray of an iron solution.
