bromeliad
Vriesea spp.
Also Known As - flaming swordCycle:
Perennial
Watering:
Average
Propagation:
Seed Propagation
Hardiness Zone:
10
Flowers:
Red Flowers In Summer
Sun:
part shade,sun-part shade
Soil:
Well-drained
Fruits:
red,yellow,orange Fruits Ready In Summer
Leaf:
Yes
Leaf Color:
green,red,yellow,orange,brown
Growth Rate:
Low
Maintenance:
Low
Drought Tolerant:
Yes
Salt Tolerant:
Yes
Indoors:
Yes
Care Level:
Medium
watering
Bromeliads should be watered every 7-14 days with enough water to fully moisten the media but not drench it. Watering frequency may need to be adjusted depending on the season, age of the plant, pot size, and potting mix. When watering, remember to empty the cup of any excess water at the top of the plant, as this can cause rotting and fungal diseases in the leaves. It is best to water bromeliads slowly so that the water can fully penetrate the potting media. Always use tepid water, not cold water.
sunlight
Bromeliad plants (Vriesea spp.) require bright, indirect sunlight for optimal growth and flowering. They should be placed in an east-facing window or near a south-facing window for the most benefit. If placed in direct sunlight, they may get sunburned, causing the leaves to yellow or even burn off. For best results, bromeliads should receive 4 to 6 hours of bright or indirect sunlight each day, from morning until mid-afternoon. They can also tolerate shade for part of the day, particularly in warmer climates. Being semi-tropical plants, these plants also enjoy warm temperatures, between 65-90F (18-32C), and high humidity of around 60 to 80 percent.
pruning
Pruning for bromeliads (Vriesea spp.) should be done every 1 to 2 years, depending on the species. Pruning should generally be done by removing or cutting any old or dead leaves or flower stalks. In general, the amount of pruning required varies from very little (with some species) to considerable (with others). In rare cases, where the plant is severely overgrown, it may be necessary to cut back as far as the ground to encourage new growth.
FAQ
Do bromeliads have flowers?
Yes, bromeliads do have flowers. The flowers of a bromeliad can take a range of shapes, from large and showy to small and subtle. The color of the flowers can vary among the species, with colors including reds, pinks, yellows, oranges, purples, and blends of colors. The bracts that surround the small flowers can also be quite colorful and vibrant, adding an extra layer of color to the bromeliad.
Is bromeliad a succulent?
No, bromeliad is not a succulent. Bromeliads are members of the larger flowering plant family Bromeliaceae and are native to the tropical Americas. They can tolerate moisture, dappled light, and semi-shade, but they are not usually considered succulents since they do not store water in their leaves or stems. They can vary in size from small and dull to lush and showy, and require different growing conditions than most succulents.
Are bromeliads epiphytes?
Yes, bromeliads are epiphytes. They are "air plants" that use the structure of their host plant, such as a branch or trunk, as a place to grow, instead of soil. They often have roots that attach to their host plants but do not actually penetrate the plant. In their natural environment, bromeliads can also be found growing on rocks, tree trunks, and other non-plant objects.
Could bromeliads grow indoors?
Yes, bromeliads can definitely grow indoors. These tropical plants are relatively easy to care for, thriving in indirect light and warm temperatures; they make a great choice for windowsills and other areas of the home. Bromeliads also require very little water and nutrients, making them ideal for those who do not have a green thumb. With their bright, vibrant colors, bromeliads instantly add a splash of life to any room.
Is Bromeliad a good air purifier?
Yes, bromeliads are an excellent air purifier. The plant's broad, deep leaves catch and filter dust and other particles from the air. Bromeliads also absorb and reduce volatile organic compounds, such as formaldehyde, which can accumulate in homes. The air purifying capabilities of bromeliads have been documented in scientific studies, showing that the plant can reduce concentrations of harmful pollutants. Bromeliads also help to humidify the surrounding air, making them ideal for bedrooms and other indoor spaces.
Is bromeliad a popular plant in landscaping?
Yes, bromeliad plants are becoming increasingly popular in landscaping. They are well-loved for the unique foliage, bold colours and interesting shapes that adorn their leaves. Bromeliads also boast an impressive ability to thrive with minimal attention, making them an ideal landscape addition for busy homeowners. Bromeliads come in a variety of shapes and sizes, from short cascading plants to tall flowering trees, and make excellent accent pieces for many different landscaping schemes.
Is bromeliad a good plant for a winter garden?
No, bromeliads are not a good plant for a winter garden. These tropical plants prefer temperatures around 75-90 degrees. Since winters are usually much cooler, bromeliads will not survive in a winter garden. If you wish to plant one in the winter, you will need to take extra steps to protect it from the cold such as providing a heated shelter, using frost cloth and keeping the plant in a pot to move it indoors if needed.
