About
Ochagavia carnea, the Tresco rhodostachys, is a terrestrial bromeliad with dense rosettes spreading to 60 cm, composed of 30 to 50 stiff, very narrow, spiny-edged, evergreen leaves, dark-green above and grey-white below. In summer it produces a spherical cluster of bright-pink, tubular flowers at the centre of the rosette. A striking bromeliad for a sunny, frost-free garden or conservatory.
About the genus
Ochagavia are evergreen, terrestrial bromeliads with almost stemless, spreading rosettes of stiff, spiny-toothed leaves. The spherical inflorescence at the centre of the rosette is composed of tubular, red or yellow flowers followed by green berries.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeLoam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectWest-facing, South-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH1C
Plant details
Plant typeConservatory Greenhouse, Houseplants
HabitBushy
FoliageEvergreen
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread0.5-1 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesSub-tropical
Native toChile
Care notes
CultivationGrow under glass, or as a houseplant, in terrestrial bromeliad compost in full light with low humidity. Water moderately with soft water in growth, keep almost dry when dormant. See bromeliad cultivation
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationSow seed at 27°C as soon as ripe
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to scale insects
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free