Neoregelia ‘Tiger Cub’ is a captivating bromeliad known for its striking appearance and straightforward care. Its distinctive foliage, with vibrant stripes and a compact growth habit, makes it a popular choice for indoor plant enthusiasts. This plant offers continuous visual interest for both novice and experienced growers.
Understanding Your Neoregelia ‘Tiger Cub’
Neoregelia ‘Tiger Cub’ is a miniature hybrid bromeliad, typically reaching about 6 inches in height. Its stiff, upright leaves form a classic rosette, or “tank,” which naturally collects water. The foliage displays a light green base with prominent maroon or dark brown horizontal bands, creating a “tiger-like” pattern. This banding becomes more intense and colorful with ample bright light.
As an epiphyte, Neoregelia ‘Tiger Cub’ naturally grows on other plants or structures, absorbing moisture and nutrients from the air and collected debris. It reproduces by sending out “pups” or offsets on stolons, specialized stems that grow horizontally. This growth habit allows it to form clumps over time.
Caring for Neoregelia ‘Tiger Cub’
Light
Neoregelia ‘Tiger Cub’ thrives in bright, indirect light. An east-facing window is often ideal, providing sufficient brightness without the harshness of direct afternoon sun. While it can tolerate higher light levels if gradually acclimated, intense direct sunlight can scorch its leaves. Insufficient light leads to faded foliage colors.
Watering
The central cup, or “tank,” should be kept filled with fresh water. Flush and refill it weekly to prevent stagnation and mineral buildup. Using distilled water or rainwater is beneficial to avoid mineral deposits on the leaves. The potting medium should be allowed to dry out slightly between waterings, as these plants are prone to root rot if kept consistently soggy.
Humidity and Temperature
These tropical plants appreciate medium to high humidity, ideally around 65-80 percent. Misting the plant daily or placing it on a pebble tray filled with water can help increase ambient humidity. Neoregelia ‘Tiger Cub’ prefers consistent warm temperatures, generally thriving between 65-80°F (18-27°C). While they can tolerate brief dips to 50°F (10°C), they should be protected from frost and prolonged cold.
Potting Medium
Given its epiphytic nature, Neoregelia ‘Tiger Cub’ requires a well-draining, airy potting mix that mimics its natural growing environment. A specialized bromeliad mix or a blend incorporating orchid bark, perlite, and peat moss works well. The potting medium primarily serves to anchor the plant, as it absorbs most of its moisture and nutrients through its leaves and central cup. Shallow pots are often suitable, ensuring good airflow around the roots.
Fertilization
Neoregelias have minimal fertilization needs. Apply a highly diluted liquid fertilizer, such as one specifically formulated for bromeliads, every 4-6 weeks during the growing season. This can be applied to the central cup or sprayed onto the leaves as a foliar feed. Avoid heavy fertilization, as this can be detrimental to the plant.
Propagating Neoregelia ‘Tiger Cub’
Neoregelia ‘Tiger Cub’ readily produces offsets, or “pups,” the primary method for propagation. These pups emerge from the base of the mother plant, often on short stolons. Separate a pup when it reaches one-third to one-half the size of the mother plant, or has developed at least four mature leaves. Leaving the pup attached longer results in a stronger new plant.
To separate, use a sharp, sterilized knife or pruners to cut the pup from the mother, ensuring a small portion of the stolon or mother plant tissue remains attached. While pups can root without existing roots, having some roots attached provides a head start. Plant the pup in a well-draining bromeliad mix, keeping it shallow to prevent rot. Provide support with a stick to stabilize the pup until it establishes its own root system.
Addressing Common Challenges
If leaf tips turn brown, it often indicates low humidity or a buildup of minerals from tap water. Increase humidity and use distilled or rainwater for the central cup. Fading colors in the foliage usually signal insufficient light, prompting a move to a brighter location.
Stagnant water in the central cup can lead to rot; regular flushing prevents this. If the plant shows signs of root rot, such as soggy or browning leaves at the base, it indicates overwatering of the potting medium. Allow the medium to dry out between waterings to avoid this. Neoregelia ‘Tiger Cub’ can occasionally attract common houseplant pests like mealybugs; prompt treatment with appropriate organic solutions resolves these issues.