About
An evergreen, perennial bromeliad forming a rosette of glossy, dark-green, lance-shaped leaves to 30cm long. In summer an erect stem to 50cm arises from the centre of the rosette, this is topped with a striking inflorescence composed of red bracts with white tips. This eye-catching flower spike will last for several months, after which the leaf rosette will die. However, new, offset plants may be produced around the parent rosette at this time.
About the genus
Guzmania are stemless evergreen perennials forming a rosette of leathery strap-shaped leaves, with spikes of tubular white or yellow flowers and showy bracts, in summer
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeLoam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH1B
Plant details
Plant typeHouseplants
HabitTufted
FoliageEvergreen
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesHouseplants, Patio and container plants, Sub-tropical
Care notes
CultivationGrow in epiphytic bromeliad compost in bright filtered or indirect light. When in growth water moderately and mist daily. See bromeliad cultivation for further information
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by removal of offsets in spring and summer, or by seed sown at 26°C in spring; seedlings may not flower for 5 years or more
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to mealybugs
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free