Catopsis berteroniana , commonly known as the powdery strap airplant or the lantern of the forest, is an epiphytic bromeliad thought to be a possible carnivorous plant, similar to Brocchinia reducta, although the evidence is equivocal. Its native range is from southern Florida to southern Brazil. It generally grows on the unshaded twigs of trees, and has been shown experimentally to trap more insects in its tank than other bromeliads of comparable size. There are several other species in the genus, none of which is believed to be carnivorous.
Powdery strap airplant is fairly disease-resistant and generally not prone to illness. However, it can be vulnerable to rot if it lacks sufficient ventilation. Its care level is considered medium because it needs frequent misting to increase humidity and a small amount of fertilizer added to its water. This plant is better suited to growers with some experience, since improper care over time can kill it even when problems are not immediately apparent.
How to keep Catopsis Berteroniana.
Light
Powdery strap airplant is native to habitats that receive ample sunlight, such as open bogs and sunny wetlands. It prefers full sun but can also tolerate partial sun.
Temperature
The powdery strap airplant does best in warm conditions. If the ambient temperature falls too low, the plant may stop growing or suffer frost damage. It has a high tolerance for heat and humidity and needs a consistent moisture level in its surroundings. However, excessively high temperature and humidity can make it prone to fungal infections. In dry environments, regular watering and misting are required to keep air humidity adequate. The plant is sensitive to abrupt temperature changes, so maintaining a fairly steady temperature is important.
Pot & Repot
When repotting Powdery strap airplant, select a pot 1-2 inches (2.5–5.1 cm) larger that has ample drainage. Use a well-draining potting mix. Repot in spring or fall, making sure the root ball sits slightly lower than the rim of the flower pot. Water thoroughly after repotting and place the plant in a warm spot with indirect sunlight.
Botanical profile.
- Plant Type
- Herb
- Life Cycle
- Perennial
- Genus
- Catopsis
- Family
- Bromeliaceae
- Hardiness Zone
- 10-12
- Mature Height
- 0.3 m to 1.83 m
- Mature Spread
- 40 cm to 61 cm
- Leaf Color
- Light Green, Yellow
- Leaf Type
- Evergreen
- Flower Size
- 1.02 cm to 2.03 cm
- Bloom Time
- Summer
- Planting Time
- Summer, Autumn
- Harvest Time
- Late summer, Early fall, Mid fall
- Native Area
- Colombia, Bahamas, Belize, Cuba, Mexico, Guatemala, Venezuela, Guyana, Brazil, Nicaragua, Ecuador, Costa Rica, Panama, Jamaica
Other names.
