Flaming sword - Vriesea maxoniana (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images)

Flaming sword

Vriesea maxoniana is a plant species native to Bolivia. Vriesea maxoniana is also called the flaming sword. This species is often cultivated as a houseplant for its bright flowers. It grows best in a one-to-one mixture of potting soil and orchid soil. For optimal growth, flaming sword should be grown in bright, indirect light indoors.

Scientific classification

Species

Flaming sword (Vriesea maxoniana)

Grasses, sedges and allies

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Perennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Spring, Summer

Bloom Time

90 cm

Spread

Green, Variegated

Leaf Color

Yellow, Red, Orange

Flower Color

Distribution of Flaming sword

Distribution Map

Flaming sword is a plant primarily native to the central region of South America. It has extended beyond its native range through cultivation. This species is now grown in various parts of the world, adorning botanical gardens and collections where conditions allow for its growth and maintenance.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Garden Use

Flaming sword is cultivated in gardens for its unusual good looks, with a bright orange-red flower spike that rises from its central "tank" of leaves. It is often chosen for its adaptability to different light conditions and its relative ease of care. These plants grow on trees in the wild, and do not do well in garden soil, so they are usually displayed in planters full of orchid mix, or sometimes hung on a fence or wall after being fastened to a piece of wood.

Symbolism

New life, new home or new start

Interesting Facts

Vriesea, like many bromeliads is epiphytic, meaning the plant gets its nutrients from the air and water. The roots act like anchors and will attach to a piece of wood or to a tree but these plants are not parasitic. The leaves have hair-like cellular structures known as trichomes that absorb water and nutrients, essentially feeding the plant through its leaves.

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Care Guide for Flaming sword

Every week

Water

Partial sun

Sunlight

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Potting Mix

Soil Type

Water: Flaming sword originates from tropical forests, thriving in moist, humid environments. It absorbs water through roots and foliage, requiring weekly watering. As an epiphyte, it benefits from misting to simulate natural conditions, maintaining ideal moisture levels for optimal growth.

Fertilize: Fertilize flaming sword every 3-4 weeks in spring and summer with diluted high-phosphorus fertilizer, reducing to bi-monthly in fall, and stopping in winter. Use quarter-strength solutions to prevent burn and promote nutrient uptake. Adjusting seasonal feeding enhances flaming sword's health while avoiding over-fertilization risks.

Pruning: Flaming sword features striking sword-like bracts and vibrant colors. Pruning is essential for aesthetics and health, best done in early spring to late winter. Remove dead foliage for air circulation and disease prevention, using clean tools to promote new offsets and plant vigor.

Propagation: To propagate flaming sword, use division to separate offsets from the mother plant during repotting, ensuring sterile tools are employed. Plant the divisions in a well-draining potting mix and maintain a warm, humid environment for successful root development and plant establishment.

Repotting: Repot flaming sword every 2-3 years in spring, during its slow growth phase. Use a slightly larger pot to prevent root rot. After repotting, provide indirect light and maintain slight soil moisture to support the health of flaming sword's unique inflorescence.

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