About
Pitcairnia are terrestrial bromeliads from tropical America producing rosettes of strap-shaped or grass-like leaves and erect, or arching spikes of tubular flowers in red, orange, yellow or white. A rewarding genus for a warm, humid, sheltered greenhouse or conservatory.
About the genus
Pitcairnia are terrestrial bromeliads from tropical America producing rosettes of strap-shaped or grass-like leaves and erect spikes of tubular flowers in red, orange, yellow or white. Grown in warm, humid, sheltered greenhouses and conservatories.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH1B
Plant details
Plant typeAquatic
HabitFloating
FoliageEvergreen
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesPonds, water features, bog gardens.
Native toTropics
ToxicityHarmful if eaten, skin/eye irritant. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling
Care notes
CultivationThis plant is listed on Schedule 9 of the UK Wildlife & Countryside Act as an invasive non-native species. Although not banned from sale, it is an offence to plant or cause these to grow in the wild IN ENGLAND, WALES, NORTHERN IRELAND and the REPUBLIC OF IRELAND. Gardeners possessing them should undertake measures to control them. See RHS advice on invasive non-native species for further information
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPlease see cultivation notes
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free