Flaming Torch Bromeliad; Foolproof plant

Botanical Name: Billbergia pyramidalis striata Bromeliad

Native Region/Environment: Native to northern South America and parts of the Caribbean, 

Sun/Light: Part sun to filtered, bright light.  Zones 8b-12.

Temperature: Able to withstand temperature extremes: a light frost will have little impact, whereas a hard frost will cause die back.  Excessive direct sun or high temperatures are not ideal, but prospers in higher humidity.

Water: Keep the top, central funnel filled with water.  If grown terrestrially then water very sparingly.  If grown epiphytically then a weekly mist or two is sufficient.

Soil: Shallow, very loose, fast draining and fertile soil or secure on a piece of wood, branch or trunk with a bit of sphagnum moss. 

Growth Pattern: An adaptive bromeliad that can grow epiphytically on a tree, branch or even drift wood; or terrestrially, in well draining soil. The plant is a clumping grower with compact overlapped, rigid lime green leaves striped with yellows and a brilliant coral red torch shaped flower that often has iridescent purple tips.

The center cup collects and stores water, debris and dead insects from which the plant gets additional nutrients.

Mature Size: 14"-16" height and slow spreading laterally.

Attributes:  Long lived plants requiring low attention or maintenance with rewarding long lasting blooms.

Attractor: The flower nectar will attract pollinators and hummingbirds.

Pot: 3.5" or 4"