Deuterocohnia chlorantha

Deuterocohnia brevifolia forma chlorantha is commonly called the ‘Argentine Ball’. 

A dense clump forming bromeliad, the foliage forms tight rosettes, small triangular leaves, toothed, and covered with fine hairs which allow the plant to thrive in hot conditions.

Naturally growing in a very dry climate with poor rocky soils, originally called Abometitiella, this is a slow growing plant, that thrives in dry conditions, sun to part shade and has very low water needs.

Flowering in late winter into spring, this is a Bromeliad Varieties that grows well in containers, or in the rock or crevice garden.

Deuterocohnia brevifolia forma chlorantha 'Argentine Ball'
Deuterocohnia brevifolia forma chlorantha ‘Argentine Ball’

Individual plants are only around 2 – 3 cm across, however they continually from offsets and will form a large ball over time. 

Propagation is from the offsets rather than from seed and the plant is now known as Deuterocohnia chlorantha.

How to grow Deuterocohnia chlorantha

  1. Best grown in a shallow pot or trough.
  2. Use a free draining succulent potting mix.
  3. Grow in full sun to a little afternoon shade.
  4. Allow the soil to dry between waterings.
  5. Cut back on water during colder months.
  6. Use rain water if possible or allow tap water to stand over night.

Problems

Lack of light can cause leaf drop.