Blushing Bromeliad (Neoregelia Carolinae ‘Tricolor’) Care Guide

Blushing bromeliad (Neoregelia carolinae’ Tricolor’) is an epiphytic plant native to the rainforests of Brazil. It’s known for its beautiful, three-toned leaves that are green on the top and red towards the center, making it appear like it’s blushing. Its colorful leaves and delicate flowers make it a standout among houseplants, and its easy care requirements make it a favorite for gardeners of all skill levels.

Blushing bromeliads are stunning plants with attractive colors on the inside of the leaves. Since they’re evergreens and are primarily grown for their leaves, they make a perfect addition to any interior space. In addition, they are highly suited for the indoors, keeping your environment filled with color year-round.

Neoregelia carolinae ‘Tricolor’ Main Characteristics

Common Name	Blushing Bromeliad
Botanical Name	Neoregelia carolinae ‘Tricolor’
Family	Bromeliaceae
Genus	Neoregelia
Type	Epiphyte
Native Range	Garden Origin
USDA Hardiness Zones	10 to 11
Mature Size	Height: 0.75-1.50 feet; Spread: 0.75-1.50 feet
Bloom Time	Summer
Foliage	Evergreen
Propagation methods	by seed, by offsets
Sun	Part shade to full shade
Soil	Moist, Well–drained
Toxicity	Non-Toxic

Blushing Bromeliad Care

This plant’s popularity is self-evident. Not only does it have great looks going for it, but it also takes care of itself without much help from you! Blushing bromeliad grows well indoors as long as you provide plenty of light and the right temperature. And they’re not too fussy about water either!

Light and Location

This plant prefers medium to bright light and should be kept in a location with direct sunlight for a few hours each day. But keep it away from the bright afternoon sun, as it can get burnt in intense sunlight. These plants can survive deep shade if they have to, but the growth won’t be as lush.

Watering

These bromeliads need to be watered frequently, especially when first potted. Pour water directly into the funnel in the center of the leaves rather than in the soil. Use soft water and make sure to let it drain completely. Don’t let the water become stagnant.

Temperature

This plant does best in 65 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit (18 – 27ºC). The absolute minimum they will tolerate is 50 degrees Fahrenheit (10ºC). Any lower than that, and there is a high chance the plant will die.

Humidity

The blushing bromeliad does best when humidity levels are high, so you may need to invest in a humidifier if you decide to add one of these plants to your home or office. Just as effective option is to use a tray of wet pebbles. Set the plant on top of it, and it should increase the humidity around the pot.

Fertilizer

Neoregelia carolinae’ Tricolor’ does not have any special fertilizer requirements, but it will benefit from a regular application of liquid fertilizer. You can use a low nitrogen liquid fertilizer and administer it every month when the plant is actively growing.

Propagating Blushing Bromeliad

Blushing bromeliads are primarily propagated by taking offsets from the side of the plant. Bromeliads often send out offsets around the plant base, so look for small sections of the plant that are growing separately from the main stem. Typically, after the mother plant has bloomed, it will begin to wilt and die and allow the pups to take its place. You can let nature take its course or remove a large enough offset to start a new plant early. 

The hard part is waiting for the offset to grow big enough. It needs to be either already growing thin, spindly roots or be a third of the size of the mother plant. To remove it, simply twist and pull. Next, plant the offset in a fresh pot and cover it with a plastic bag to increase humidity. It should start to take root in the soil in a few weeks. 

You can also opt to propagate using seeds. But this process may take a long time to complete, and it’s usually much easier and more efficient to simply use offsets.

Potting and Repotting Neoregelia carolinae’ Tricolor’

When potting, you should use a pot with drainage holes. A clay pot generally works best as it has the best drainage capabilities. Use a soil mix specially made for bromeliads, or you can make your own mix by combining potting soil with perlite or sand. Either way, it has to be well-draining; otherwise, root rot will set in early and kill your plant before it has had a chance to grow. 

This plant generally needs repotting every year. Get a slightly bigger pot each year until it gets as large as 5 inches, and then you don’t need to worry about repotting again. This is the maximum spread this plant’s roots will reach in its lifetime. Be sure to water your plant well after repotting, and keep it in a location with bright light until it becomes re-established.

Common Pests

Aphids, thrips, and scales can become problems for your bromeliad, as they like similar conditions that the bromeliad is accustomed to. Therefore, if you notice any pests on your plant, you should immediately remove them using a standard insecticide. And if that doesn’t work, consult a pest control specialist.

How to Take Care of a Blushing Bromeliad (Neoregelia Carolinae ‘Tricolor’) (Video)