Color
Foliage: The leaves of ‘Black Chantini’ are a deep, almost black, green with striking silver or white bands running horizontally across the leaves, giving it a zebra-like pattern.
Flowers: The flower spike is typically bright red or pink, which contrasts beautifully with the dark foliage.
Climate
Temperature: ‘Black Chantini’ thrives in warm temperatures, ideally between 65°F and 80°F (18°C – 27°C). It is sensitive to frost and should be protected from temperatures below 50°F (10°C).
Humidity: High humidity, around 50-70%, is ideal for this bromeliad, making it well-suited to tropical and subtropical environments.
Size
Mature Size: ‘Black Chantini’ is a medium-sized bromeliad, reaching about 18 to 24 inches (45-60 cm) in height and spread.
Care
Light: Prefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate some direct sunlight, particularly in the morning or late afternoon. Too much direct sunlight can cause the dark leaves to fade.
Watering: Water should be placed in the central cup formed by the rosette of leaves. Keep the cup filled with fresh water, and ensure the soil remains moist but well-drained.
Soil: A well-draining mix, such as one composed of orchid bark, peat, and perlite, is ideal for ‘Black Chantini.’
Fertilization: Apply a balanced, diluted fertilizer during the growing season. Avoid putting fertilizer directly into the plant’s central cup.
Hardiness Zone
USDA Zones: ‘Black Chantini’ is hardy in USDA Zones 10-11. In cooler areas, it should be grown indoors or brought inside during cold weather.
Landscaping
Use: The striking foliage of ‘Black Chantini’ makes it a focal point in tropical gardens, shaded areas, or as a potted indoor plant. Its unique color and pattern make it a standout in any setting.
Companion Plants: It pairs well with other bromeliads, ferns, and shade-loving tropical plants like calatheas and anthuriums, creating a lush, diverse garden display.
Additional Information
Propagation: ‘Black Chantini’ produces pups after flowering, which can be separated and replanted to propagate new plants.
Flowering: Like most bromeliads, ‘Black Chantini’ typically flowers once, with the main plant eventually dying back to allow new pups to grow.
The bromeliad ‘Black Chantini’ is a striking, easy-care plant that adds a bold, tropical flair to both indoor and outdoor spaces. Its dark, patterned leaves and contrasting flowers make it an eye-catching addition to any garden or home.