| Wittrockia | |
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Scientific classification 
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| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Clade: | Tracheophytes |
| Clade: | Angiosperms |
| Clade: | Monocots |
| Clade: | Commelinids |
| Order: | Poales |
| Family: | Bromeliaceae |
| Subfamily: | Bromelioideae |
| Genus: | Wittrockia Lindm. |
| Species | |
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See text | |
Wittrockia is a genus of plants in the family Bromeliaceae, subfamily Bromelioideae.
The genus name is for Veit Brecher Wittrock, a Swedish botanist (1839-1914).
These plants are native to Central America and South America. Many species are endemic to the Atlantic Forest biome (Mata Atlantica Brasileira), located in southeastern Brazil.
Description
Wittrockia is large among bromeliad genera, producing long, glossy leaves armed with sharp spines. Forming rosettes over 1 meter in diameter, the foliage may contain various colors of spots and banding, depending on species.
Their inflorescence blooms deep in the vase where the plant catches water.
Species
- Wittrockia cyathiformis (Vellozo) Leme
- Wittrockia flavipetala (Wand.) Leme & H.Luther
- Wittrockia gigantea (Baker) Leme
- Wittrockia paulistana Leme
- Wittrockia spiralipetala Leme
- Wittrockia superba Lindman
- Wittrockia tenuisepala (Leme) Leme
Cultivation
Wittrockia species are adaptable to varying climates and light exposure. Their attractive foliage has made them popular in cultivation as an ornamental plant.
References
- Bromeliad Society International : dead link] read on line
- DPI.inpe.br: "BROMELIACEAE da MATA ATLÂNTICA BRASILEIRA: Lista de ESPÉCIES, DISTRIBUIÇÃO e CONSERVAÇÃO"; Rodriguésia 59, February 2008; ppg 209−258; article−(in Portuguese), abstract−(in English) species lists−(in Latin). accessed 30 May 2016.
External links
- Florida Council of Bromeliad Societies - Wittrockia Photos
- BSI Genera Gallery Wittrockia Photos
| Taxon identifiers | |
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| Wittrockia | |