This plant adds color in a way that most plants do not. Most house plants don’t flower; when they do, it’s only for a brief period. However, bromeliad plant can add color to any room.
Many kinds of bromeliad plants exist, according to experts. Many of us know and love the Guzmania, with its colorful flower-like formations near the top and long, evergreen leaves near the bottom; there is a whole world of bromeliads for plant enthusiasts to begin caring for.
A quick tip: When a bromeliad plant reaches maturity, the blooms are spindly and delicate compared to the colorful bracts.
Common Varieties Of Bromeliad Plants
Approximately 3,000 species of bromeliad exist. Bromeliads are distant cousins of pineapples, though bromeliads themselves aren’t edible.
Colorful house plants are more common, but some bromeliads are air plants, which take moisture from the air and use it for growth.
Tillandsia: Often called air plants, these are a type of bromeliad, though some grow in soil.
The plants look like spiky green stars with lots of layers, and range in size, although most can fit in your palm.
It is one of the few types of bromeliads that like direct sunlight and frequent misting. Some produce flowers.
Guzmania: The most well-known bromeliad, Guzmania is distinguished by its vibrant bracts, which are often orange, red, or yellow, and its simple maintenance requirements.
It is highly improbable to flower; even if it does, the flower won’t be very tall compared to the bracts.
Vriseas: Vriseas are known as “blazing swords” because of their striking geometric orange and yellow bracts. As Vriseas approaches the end of its lifespan, it may only ever blossom once.
Neoregilia: These have much stiffer bracts and a small amount of spike on edge. From vibrant pink to dark brown, the colors are varied. Small flowers could sprout from the cup’s base if you’re fortunate.
Cryptanthus: These resemble other potted green plants more closely and are sometimes called earth stars. Their leaves, which can be pink, red, or forest green, develop in a rosette shape.
Tillandsia Religiosa: Christmas displays often include this plant. Mexico celebrates the holiday; they call this plant “Bromada,” particularly in Sierra de Tepoztlan, Tlayacapan, San Jose de Los Laureles, and Tepoztlan.
Science discovered an entirely new species of bromeliad plant. It grows up to 5 ft and is found in rocky habitats in northern Morelos. They flower between December and March.
Plant Profile
Botanical name: Bromeliaceae
Commonly known as Bromeliads
Hardiness zone: 9-11
Toxicity: Not toxic to humans or pets
Watering frequency: Every 2-4 weeks
Soil type: Well-draining
Light exposure: Moderate to bright indirect light
Water: Overwatering a bromeliad is a guaranteed way to destroy it, just like it is with many other houseplants. Even though they enjoy humidity, they only require water around twice a month on average.
For some who find it difficult to understand, a bromeliad simply requires water when it is dry. Get to know your bromeliad and give it a few daily checks. Should simply water the plant’s “cup,” or center, directly.
Potting and Fertilizer
Like orchids, bromeliads prefer soil that is loose and well-draining. For bromeliads, you can use orchid mix (experts do this occasionally) or a combination of peat moss, perlite, charcoal, and/or bark.
Since bromeliads typically take a very long time to mature, experts advise buying one when it has reached the size you want throughout most of its lifespan.
Large plants can be housed in relatively tiny pots due to their shallow root systems. Any type of pot with drainage, whether made of clay, plastic, or another material, may be used.
Temperature
Tropical plants called bromeliads prefer temperatures between 60 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit, while they can survive in temperatures as low as 50 degrees or as high as 90 degrees.
High humidity benefits bromeliads, though it might vary depending on the species. Guzman’s are not often demanding.
Although they are not required, humidifiers might be helpful if you live in a dry area.
Give your bromeliad a brief spritz with a spray bottle a few times each week if your climate is typically humid.
Light
Bromeliads prefer soft, indirect light despite the widespread belief that tropical plants love the sun.
It’s too light if your bromeliad’s leaves have white or brown blotches, indicating overexposure.
Your bromeliad will enjoy this mix of indirect light and high humidity if your bathroom has a window.
Common Problems
The most frequent issue with bromeliads is overwatering. According to the expert, “their shallow root system rots away, and you’ll see it tilt over.”
It is then burnt. If a bromeliad has brown blotches, there is probably not enough humidity in the air.
Cut back your bromeliad to the point where the color is vibrant if you notice it beginning to brown and lose its bracts.
Propagation
Pups are the smaller branches that sprout from a plant’s root system.
They will do better if you let them stay on the mother plant until they are between one-third and one-half the size of the original plant.
They can then be taken out and replanted at that stage.
Final Word
- Bromeliads are colorful, beginner-friendly houseplants.
- Although numerous varieties of bromeliads exist, guzmanias are the most prevalent and straightforward.
- Make sure to give bromeliad plenty of humidity and moderate, indirect light.
- Bromeliads make excellent houseplants for novice plant parents or those who enjoy vibrant colors.
- There are various varieties, but a Guzmania will likely be the most user-friendly if you’re just starting.
- Be careful to provide humidity and mild, indirect light; water it only when the soil is dry.
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Last update on 2023-11-26 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
