Vriesea correia-arauji

Description

This is a cute, miniature bromeliad, which matures at about 6 inches tall.

It’s native to Brazil, where it grows as an epiphyte in wet rainforests, creating nice clumps via stolons.

This species is relatively rare in the plant hobby, but is truly fantastic, and a must for any miniature plant collector.

Foliage & Growth habit

The leaves are various colors of rich, vibrant green, curved, and have a bit of speckling in a brownish color, typically near the sheath.

The plant has a somewhat bulbous shaped base.

This species spreads via short stolons, creating pups, which form a nice clump over time.

Flowers

The plant grows a 10 inch tall inflorescence with bracts that are light red, tipped in white.

Culture info

In a hurry? See the care summary.

Substrate

As long as the leaf rosette has water in it, and the plant is misted frequently, this species does not require soil.

That said, it will do best if grown potted in a substrate.

A good substrate mix for Vriesea correia-arauji is moist, but well drained and breathable, for example:

• Fine bark (Fir or Pine fines, Radiata bark, etc)
• Peat
• Perlite (small to medium grade, and only 10-20% of the mix overall)

You can browse the substrates list on my Amazon page to see some of the substrates that I use for my plants and terrariums, as well as the substrate recipes page for examples and ideas.

Water

The plant should be misted frequently, especially if grown in low humidity.

It is fine for the plant to “hold water” in the leaf rosette, like a tank bromeliad.

Humidity

In my experience, it is capable of withstanding humidity levels down to around 35%-40% without any foliage issues, if misted daily and kept in a moist substrate. It grows better in 50% or higher humidity, and would probably do very well in a large vivarium, grow tent, or greenhouse.

Light

A range from low to medium-bright light is ideal. Avoid extremely bright or hot light.

By the way, I have a video that shows and discusses the lights I use for my plants, as well as a tutorial series for how to set up a grow rack.

Temperature

Intermediate to warm temperatures. Avoid cool or cold temps.

Air Movement & Ventilation

Good air flow is important, especially if grown in very humid conditions.
Avoid having the foliage stay wet for long periods which could lead to fungal or bacterial issues.

Fertilizer

The best fertilizer is a formulation made specifically for Bromeliads, for example Grow More Tillandsia and Bromeliad food (view on Amazon).

Propagation

Stoloniferous pups can be cut off when at least ⅓ to ½ the size of the mother plant.

Quick Care Summary

• Moist but well drained substrate (fine bark, peat, perlite)
• Frequent misting, water OK to sit in leaf cups
• Medium to high humidity
• Medium light
• Intermediate to warm temperatures
• Good air flow
• Bromeliad fertilizer
• Propagate via pup separation