Are you looking for an exotic-looking plant for your outdoor or indoor space? Look no further than Bromeliad plants!
Bromeliads have a reputation for looking fancy and exotic and being difficult to grow. But we have good news – they are actually relatively easy to keep happy and healthy with the right growing conditions. Bromeliads are generally grown as houseplants, but if your garden provides ideal growing conditions, they will thrive outdoor as well.
Bromeliad plants have spectacular bloom displays and they look amazing as foliage plants as well, having coloured leaves in all sorts of colour shades, like red, green, purple, orange, and yellow. You might think that you’ve never heard of Bromeliads before, but chances are you’ve come across these beautiful plants in your local supermarket, as Vriesea, Guzmania, and other popular types of Bromeliads are very common these days.
These plants are generally extremely adaptable, tolerating a variety of home and garden environments. Bromeliads are considered slow-growing plants, and they need between one to three years until they mature and start blooming. They also need some specific conditions to bloom, which are often challenging to mimic as their bloom cycle is affected by factors like day length, temperature, humidity, water, and feeding.
Ready to learn more about growing and caring for Bromeliad plants? Keep reading our complete guide to growing and caring for Bromeliads!
About Bromeliads
- Bromeliads belong to the Bromeliaceae genera, and they are part of the Bromeliaceae family. There are three main subfamilies of Bromeliads: bromelioideae (Bromeliads), pitcairnoideae, and tillandsioideae (Tillandsia).
- The Bromeliad family of plants includes thousands of species of plants. Most Bromeliads are native to the tropical Americas, a few species to the American subtropics, and one to tropical west Africa.
- There are many popular types of Bromeliad, including Guzmania, Tillandsia, Vriesea, Billbergia, Portea, Hechtia, Aechmea, Quesnelia, Pineapple Bromeliad, and Cryptanthus a.k.a. Earth Star.
- The tillandsia genus is the largest one in the Bromeliad family and you can learn more about these plants from our complete guide to tillandsia plants.
- The largest species of bromeliad is Puya raimondii, also known as Queen of the Andes, a truly spectacular plant that you should definitely check out.
- Spanish moss belongs to the Bromeliaceae family of plants as well and it was used as stuffing for pillows and mattresses. Indigenous people used Spanish moss in their pottery-making process.
- Pineapple plants are also part of the Bromeliad family and they are the only Bromeliads that produce commercially-sold fruit. In addition to that, you can also grow pineapple plants indoors in pots, as these plants can easily adapt to growing in containers.
- Bromeliads generally need a lot of sunlight to thrive. However, different species of Bromeliads are tolerant of varying levels of light. Some species prefer and can resist full tropical sun, while others will quickly scorch. Yellowish foliage can be a sign that the plant is receiving too much light, while dark green or elongated plants might show that they are receiving too little light.
- Generally, Bromeliads need fast-draining potting soil that can hold the moisture but also drain well. A mixture of two-thirds peat-based soil and one-third sand is an ideal soil combination that retains moisture and also drains well.
- The watering needs of Bromeliads are unique as these plants need watering via their central “vase”. Also, note that Bromeliads are sensitive to the chemicals found in tap water and prefer rainwater if possible. Most species of Bromeliads are very tolerant of drought conditions, but they generally prefer moist, not soggy soil.
- These plants are tolerant of different temperature variations. However, most species of Bromeliad need to be protected from cold. Temperatures that range between 55-80 °F (12-26 °C) are ideal for these plants. Some species of Bromeliads are cold-hardy and can survive temperatures as low as 20 °F (-6.6 °C).
- In terms of humidity, Bromeliad plants grow best indoors in 60% humidity. During summer, they can be brought outside and adapt to the humidity conditions there.
- Diseases and pests are rather rare with these plants. The only pests that can bother Bromeliads are mealybugs, aphids, and scale. You can get rid of these pests by spraying your plants with a mixture of water and a few drops of dish soap. Rubbing the plant with a cotton swab soaked in rubbing alcohol helps get rid of scale bugs.
Bromeliads Features: An Overview
- Members of the Bromeliaceae plant family, these plants feature striking, sword-shaped leaves and a bright and unusual looking bloom.
- The leaves of these plants can vary in colour from red to green, purple, orange, and yellow and present all sorts of features like bands, stripes, and spots.
- Bromeliads grow in three different ways. They are either terrestrial, grow on rocks, or epiphytic (grow on other plants such as trees). Epiphytic bromeliads get their nutrients from the air and can also grow in a special type of bark-like potting mix.
- Most Bromeliads are monocarpic, which means that they will bloom only once, but the flowers are quite long-lasting. The blooms produced will last a few months up to a year and they will be followed by tiny offsets that you can use to propagate your plant.
- No matter where you grow them, inside your home or in the garden, Bromeliad plants will add a fascinating exotic touch to the space.
- Some great companions for Bromeliads include African Violets, Areca Palms, Boston Ferns, Haworthia, Spider Plants, and Pony Tail Palm.
- Bromeliad plants are not toxic, and they pose no toxic effects to humans and pets, so you don’t have to worry about planting them out of your kids’ and pets’ reach. However, there are some rare exceptions in this plant family that can cause some allergic reactions. More precisely, the sap of these plants can lead to minor dermatitis if touched.
- In their native habitat, Bromeliads can become small ecosystems as many insects and animals use them as their homes. Tiny crabs, tree frogs, snails, salamanders, flatworms, and all sorts of insects benefit from the existence of Bromeliads.
- Some species of Bromeliads can even trap and feed on insects and are known as carnivorous bromeliads. A few examples of carnivorous bromeliads include Catopsis berteroniana, Brocchinia reducta, and Brocchinia hechtioides.
- As mentioned above, Pineapples are Bromeliads as well and there is something very interesting about pineapple pollination. As it turns out, Pineapple plants can’t self-fertilize and won’t develop seeds unless they are cross-pollinated with another pineapple plant. And how does that happen? With the help of hummingbirds. So, bromeliads rely on these adorable birds for pollination.
Growing Bromeliads
The unique looks of exotic Bromeliad plants can seem intimidating, which is why many people think that these plants are very demanding. However, while it is true that there are a few special requirements for growing Bromeliads, growing and caring for them isn’t that difficult. No matter the species of Bromeliad you’re growing, you need to pay attention to a few things: light exposure, water, feeding, and soil.
First of all, make sure that you learn just how much light exposure your Bromeliad plant prefers. While generally, Bromeliad plants like a lot of sunlight, some can quickly scorch in full sun and might need to prefer partial shade, especially in the afternoon. An excellent way to determine the right amount of light for your plant is to pay attention to its looks. More precisely, if your plant’s leaves become yellowish, it is a sign that your plant is getting too much direct light and can benefit from some protection from the sunlight. If your plant turns into a dark green shade or elongates, it means that it needs more sunlight to thrive.
Feeding is also an essential factor that will help your Bromeliads thrive and bloom. While they are not heavy feeders, your Bromeliads can appreciate some feeding during the growing season, from April to September. We recommend using a liquid fertilizer diluted at one-eight or one-quarter strength. You can also use a foliar type of feeding, which you can spray directly on the leaves of the plant. Apply fertilizer every two or four weeks. Make sure that you don’t fertilize mature plants in winter or when they have already started to flower.
Regular pruning is not a necessity for Bromeliad plants. However, it’s best to remove any unhealthy leaves with a sharp and sterile tool to ensure that the problem doesn’t spread to your entire plant.
- LIVE INDOOR PLANT: Experience the beauty of the tropics in your own home with a stunning and easy-to-care-for bromeliad plant. Just place it on any tabletop, desk, side table, or windowsill and let it serve as the focal point in any room
- PLANTS MAKE YOU FEEL BETTER: Seeing greenery and nature in our rooms, desks, and offices help us feel more relaxed and calmer. NASA studies show having plants in your home improves your mood, sparks your creativity and reduces stress
- EASY TO CARE FOR: With minimal maintenance required, our bromeliad plants make an ideal choice for busy homeowners, renters, and plant enthusiasts alike
- CLEANER AIR: Often used in indoor landscaping and as natural air purifiers, bromeliad plants make for an eco-friendly and healthful addition to any living environment
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- Bromeliad varieties can include: Guzmania Cherry, Guzmania Hope, and Guzmania Tempo
- The plant is non-variegated which simply means it is a solid green color
- Its leaves feature a heart shape that tell the tale of the name
- They may produce small balls of nectar, colored red to brown
- Perfect gift for that special someone in your life
Last update on 2025-04-27 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Planting Bromeliads
Successfully planting Bromeliad plants comes down to paying attention to the same factors mentioned above. You’ll need to choose the right spot to grow them, the ideal soil conditions, and protect them from extreme temperatures.
First, remember that light exposure can depend on the species you’re planting. Some species like to grow in full sun, while others prefer to be kept in partial shade so that they are protected from the scorching afternoon sun. If you’re planting your Bromeliad in soil outdoors, make sure to do your research and learn the correct light needs for your plant. If you plan to grow your Bromeliad as a houseplant, you can move the pot as you discover the amount of light your plant prefers.
In terms of soil, remember that Bromeliads prefer to grow in soil that can hold moisture well but also drain well. Using orchid mix, charcoal, or soilless potting mix are also good options.
When planting Bromeliads, you should also consider their temperature preferences. Most species of Bromeliad prefer relatively warm temperatures that range between 55-80 °F (12-26 °C). There are only a few cold-hardy species that can tolerate subzero temperatures. So, depending on the climate in your area and the species you choose, decide if you can plant Bromeliad in your outdoor space, or you should plant it in a pot and grow it as a houseplant for cold protection.
Extra tip: Remember to wear a pair of gardening gloves when handling Bromeliad plants, as most species have sharp or spiky leaves, which can cause minor injuries.
Watering Bromeliads
Watering Bromeliad plants is a bit different from how it is with other popular houseplants. Generally, Bromeliad plants can resist drought conditions, but, ideally, they like to grow in moist, not soggy soil.
As a general rule, it is enough to water Bromeliad plants lightly, through the soil weekly during the growing season. When the plant goes dormant during winter, adjust the watering schedule to the point where you only make sure that the top few inches of the soil are moist. It’s best to keep the central cup of the plant constantly filled with water if the plant gets full sun and temperatures are high.
Don’t forget that Bromeliads are sensitive to the chemicals found in water that comes from your tap. If possible, collect rainwater to use for watering your plants. If that is not possible, make sure to leave tap water standing for about 24 hours to eliminate some of these chemicals. Another way to provide your Bromeliads with ideal water conditions is to boil the tap water and let it cool.
It’s essential never to let your Bromeliad plants rest in standing water as they are prone to root rot which can quickly kill them. Bromeliads are resilient plants, but overwatering is their number one enemy, and something that you should avoid as much as possible.
Propagating Bromeliads
Bromeliads can be propagated from shoots or via seeds. However, propagation from shoots is much easier and faster. A fun feature of Bromeliads is their natural ability to produce offsets – tiny plants that grow at the base of the main plant. These offsets, also known as pups or plant babies are a vegetative type of reproduction. Only mature Bromeliad plants produce offsets, and this will happen after the blooming period has ended.
Bromeliads are popular ornamentals that can be found in many flower shops, so it is very likely to receive one as a gift or to offer it to a loved one. It is important to know that the most common types of Bromeliads found on the market grow their leaves in a rosette shape featuring a cup at the centre. Most Bromeliads will also feature a colourful flower stalk that grows from the centre of the cup. This flower will last for a few months after which it will eventually wither and die and this is when offsets will start to form around the base of the plant. You can propagate your Bromeliads by dividing the offsets from the mother plant and planting them in a separate container that is twice as big as the base of the offset. As you already know, these are slow-growing plants, so you might have to wait for a few years until they will produce their own flowers and their own tiny pups.
Pups that are still attached to the parent will grow and mature quicker than those that are separated. So, if you can tolerate the dying parent plant, leave the pups attached for as long as possible. Experienced Bromeliad growers will wait for the parent plant to die off before harvesting the offsets.
Another way to propagate Bromeliads is by growing them from seeds. In order to produce viable seeds, you’ll need to cross two plants. This is a bit difficult, but maybe you can purchase viable seeds from a trusted source. In this case, all you need to do is to sow the seeds in sphagnum moss or in a well-draining sterile potting medium. In order for them to sprout, make sure you keep the potting medium moist and in a warm location.
In Conclusion
Bromeliads are really spectacular plants and make fantastic focal points thanks to their exotic appearance. You can easily find Bromeliads in your local supermarket. These plants make perfect gifts and if you are tempted to buy one for yourself, go for it! You’ll enjoy its blooms for a long time and you won’t have to put in a lot of effort into caring for it. Just remember, Bromeliads will start to die off once their flowering period is over, but you shouldn’t worry about this as your plant will most likely produce plenty of offsets.
Growing Bromeliads isn’t as difficult as it may seem at first glance and these plants can be successfully grown, cared for, and propagated by both novice and experienced gardeners. Once you learn the ideal growing conditions of these plants, you’ll find it easier to help them thrive and grow happy and healthy.
1 Comment
Good evening, I was reading on some sites that you could just use an ice cube to water the plant as an effective way to give it water throughout the season, what are your thoughts? Is that true?
Reference: https://adventurecampingco.com/how-to-grow-bromeliads-outdoors-2023/