Catopsis

Family. Bromeliaceae.

Origin. Florida, Caribbean, Brazil.

Description. Catopsis is one of the few carnivorous species of the bromeliad family. It is a perennial epiphytic plant with yellowish-green, oblong-pointed leaves collected in a basal rosette. In natural conditions, it collects moisture in the leaf rosette and receives nutrients from it. The leaf blades are covered with white scales on the underside. The peduncle appears from the center of the rosette, up to 1 m high, branched, bearing many yellow or white flowers.

Height. From 10 to 50 cm, depending on the species, grows slowly.

Temperature conditions

Catopsis grows all year round without interruption, so it is suitable for year-round maintenance in warmth at a temperature of 18 - 30 °C. Do not expose the flower to temperatures below 15 °C.

Lighting

The amount of light depends on the specific plant species. Some specimens grow naturally on tree tops and need bright light indoors, while others prefer partial shade. If you don’t know the specific needs of your plant, provide it with bright, indirect light.

Substrate

Nutritious, loose soil with good drainage. 

Feeding

Catopsis requires foliar feeding directly into the rosette of leaves. Use fertilizer for bromeliads throughout the year, 2 times a month.

Flowering time

Spring Summer.

Air humidity

Very high - about 80 - 90%, which is difficult to achieve indoors. Spray the leaves of the bush as often as possible or place a room humidifier next to it. Use a tray with wet pebbles.

Soil moisture

The root system of cathopsis is not designed to absorb nutrients from the soil. For watering, use distilled or rainwater at room temperature.

Transplant

Replant in spring; adult specimens need to be replanted every 2–3 years.

Reproduction

Propagated by dividing adult plants during transplantation.

Pests and diseases

Leaves shrink due to lack of moisture. Rotting in poorly drained soil.

The most common pests are mealybugs and scale insects.