Bromeliads

This large family of ornamentals also includes the pineapple and Spanish moss. Many of these plants have such striking foliage that they remain decorative at all times, even when not in flower-the flower spike lasts three month or more on many. Their sculptural quality provides an asset in any décor, contemporary or traditional.

Flowers of the neoregelias-one group of bromeliads-stay small and often bloom unnoticed in water in the cups. To enjoy the blooms, move the plants to a location a low stand or coffe table for viewing from above. The spectacular color of the foliage offers a show itself.

Other bromeliads of special interest include Aechmea fasciata (“urn plant”), with bluish-green stiff leaves, frosted white, and a spike of pink bracts with blue flowers; Vriesia ‘Mariea’ (painted feather), with plain green leaves, but a brilliant spike of yellow and red; Vriesia splendens ‘Major’, ‘flaming sword,’ green leaves striped brown, orange spike; Vriesia viminalis ‘Rex,’ red bracts with yellow flowers, good for small spaces.

Light

Bromeliads prefer bright, but not full sun.

Water

Keep water in the center cup of the plant at all times. The root system is small. Water lightly around the base of the plant once week. Overwatering of roots will cause the plant o root at the base.

Special Helps

Bromeliads care is easy-even the “fool-proof” class. Feeding is optional. Plants will grow for years, content with whatever nutrients they get from the water. If you’re not content without feeding, a little liquid fish emulsion (dilute according to directions and use at half strength) added to the water in the center of cup should be of some benefit if applied every six to eight weeks during the summer month.

Source : Growing Houseplants