Common Name: ‘Del Cielo’
Botanical Name: Aechmea fendleri x Aechmea dichlamydea trinitensis
The Aechmea ‘Del Cielo’ is known for its unique and (usually) colorful foliage and beautiful inflorescences. This plant thrives most in bright, filtered light. We suggest giving it bright, indirect sunlight and avoid placing them in the direct sun, as it can burn the leaves of your ‘Del Cielo’ plant.
Light
Your Aechmea ‘Del Cielo’ will do best in bright, filtered light. For growing indoors, you can place it near a window that is west facing. You can also use sheer curtains to help diffuse the light if it’s too intense. If you don’t have access to natural sunlight, you can supplement with artificial grow lights that are designed for houseplants! If you are growing your ‘Del Cielo’ outdoors, you should position your plant in a spot where it receives morning sunlight and a little bit of shade during the afternoon!
Water
Aechmea ‘Del Cielo’ plants usually prefer to be kept moderately moist but not waterlogged. When watering this plant, ensure you are using water that doesn’t contain chlorine and other chemicals. Avoid using water that is high in salts or minerals, as this type of plant are sensitive.
Soil
Make sure the soil you provide your Aechmea ‘Del Cielo’ is a well-draining pot mix. It is crucial to use a mixture that lets extra water flow away from the roots, so that waterlogged conditions that can lead to root rot are prevented!The pH level range should be around 6.0 to 7.0 in the potting mix. You can plan to repot your plant once it has outgrown its container or when the potting mix has become old! Keep in mind though that this plant doesn’t require frequent repotting!
Temperature
Aechmea ‘Del Cielo’ plants do the best when they are in temperatures between 60 degrees and 80 degrees. Although they can tolerate slightly cooler temperatures (especially during the nighttime), it is best to avoid long exposures to temperatures that are under 50 degrees.
Humidity
The Aechmea ‘Del Cielo’ prefers a humidity level ranging from 50% to 70% (or higher). This is because ‘Del Cielo’ plants adapted to tropical and subtropical environments, where the humidity is usually higher. We suggest that you use a hygrometer to help monitor the humidity levels surrounding your plant. Based on this, you’ll be able to adjust your humidity enhancing methods, if you need to.
Fertilizer
Aechmea ‘Del Cielo’ can be considered low maintenance when it comes to fertilization, as they tend to not require high levels of nutrients. You should aim to feed this plant monthly or bi-monthly during the growing season. During the winter months, you can reduce or even discontinue fertilizing this plant since it’s growth rate will be slower in the cooler months.
Growth Rate
When fully grown, Aechmea ‘Del Cielo’ plants can reach a mature height of around 12 to 24 inches (30 to 60 cm. This plants growth rate is usually slow, and it could take several years for this plant to reach their mature height!
Pet Friend or Foe
Aechmea ‘Del Cielo’ is non-toxic to pets! Friend!
Pro Tips
- Don’t let your Aechmea ‘Del Cielo’ be exposed to the direct sunlight, as it can burn the leaves of your plant!
- When pruning your plant, ensure you use clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
- The ‘Del Cielo’ doesn’t need to be repotted frequently. Repot this plant only when the plant outgrows its container or when the potting mix has gotten to be old!
- Enjoy the unique and beautiful striking flower of this plant, when they appear!