Overview
Vriesea carinata is a tufted houseplants in the genus Vriesea, part of the Bromeliaceae family, with evergreen foliage. Vriesea carinata grows best in partial shade, and tolerates loam and sand soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H1a. Suggested uses include houseplants and conservatory and greenhouse.
About
Vriesea carinata (lobster claws) is a perennial epiphytic cultivar in the Bromeliaceae family, known for its tufted habit and evergreen foliage. Like other Vriesea, it forms rosettes of elongated, strap-like leaves that remain green year-round and produces upright flower spikes with prominent bracts in summer or autumn. This cultivar thrives in partial shade with a sheltered aspect, preferring fertile, moist but well-drained soil of various pH levels including acid, alkaline, and neutral. It is suitable for cultivation as a houseplant or in conservatories and greenhouses in the UK, where it requires protection from cold (H1a hardiness).
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Vriesea
- Sunlight
- Partial shade
- Soil type
- Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- Aspect
- East-facing, South-facing, West-facing, North-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H1a
Plant details
Vriesea carinata size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Houseplants
- Habit
- Tufted
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Suggested uses
- Houseplants, Conservatory and greenhouse
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Vriesea carinata
- Propagation
- Seed, Offsets in spring
- Pest resistance
- Scale insects
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Vriesea carinata?
Vriesea carinata prefers partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Vriesea carinata need?
Vriesea carinata grows best in loam and sand soil. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
Is Vriesea carinata hardy in the UK?
Vriesea carinata has an RHS hardiness rating of H1a, meaning it needs tropical warmth above 15°C and must be grown under glass in the UK.
How do I propagate Vriesea carinata?
Seed, Offsets in spring.