Abromeitiella scapigera (Succulents)

Abromeitiella scapigera (or Deuterocohnia scapigera ), is a succulent belonging to the Bromeliaceae, a botanical family characterized by its long, spiky and stiff leaves (just like the pineapple' ones: in fact, “Ananas comosus “ species is part of this family!). A. scapigera is not an exception to this: its leaves are dark green, have marginal teeths and can reach up to 25cm in lenght. These leaves form compact but simple-shaped rosettes. When it reaches maturity, an inconspicuos but lovable raceme formed by small and tubular flowers will grow from the centre of the rosette. A. scapigera doesn't have particular needs. It loves sun exposition, so put it in a bright place, and if you want to keep it indoor, place it next to a window. Watering too won't need a big effort: since this succulents can absorb air humidity through its leaves, during spring and summer watering it every two weeks will be enough – and remember to leave it get dry before watering again; during winter, delay even more this operation: otherwise, cold and humidity will damage your plant (but if it is kept dry, A. scapigera is resistant to freezing temperatures!). Other enemies to be careful about are mealybugs and aphids, both little but tricky insects that have to be treated with specific pesticides. The ground-covering growth of this succulent make it a great piece for rock gardens; anyway, it is great for indoor coltivation too. In this case, grow it in clay pots withdrainage holes; substrate should be humus-rich and well-draining, so you can use inert materials as sand and perlite.You can support an healthy growth with feeding: add a specific fertilizer while wateringfor no more than three times at year (remember, in this case less is more!).Probably, the most important thing with A. scapigera is being patient. This succulent is very easy to cultivate but it needs a lot of time to grow. You won't need to repot it every year; anyway, if you don't want to find in your hands several little plants, handle it very carefullly when it will be the time to do it. Abromeitiellas' body tends to split up easily, giving you a good advantage for propagation. Moltiplication can also be done ripping out scions. Like other Abromeitiella, A. scapigera does not require specific attentions, so it is a succulent suitable for enthusiastic of every level!