Billbergia ‘Borracho’

Bromeliads are occasionally terrestrial (grow in the ground) but most are epiphytic, growing on the trunks and branches of trees. Even others are lythophytic, growing in the cracks of rock faces. Either way they do not need much root space and thrive in pots. This also makes them ideal for mounting on a plank, tree, fence, totem or rock.

Because they are usually growing in tight spots their nutrients come from decaying litter, making them appreciate a light acidic fertilizer, but all purpose seems to work just fine.

When planting in the ground take extra care to ensure good drainage. Some ways to do this are by mounding the plants, adding pumice or lava rock to the soil, or even planting nursery cans directly into a basin of pumice to keep their roots constrained.

Avoid planting under trees or other plants that shed a lot, as the litter will collect in the rosettes. If this happens you can gently flush the tanks out with a garden hose.

Suckers from the base to create dense colonies that are easily divided.

This bromeliad builds energy its entire life to send off one spectacular flower, but afterward will die. Don't worry though, there are usually a couple pups at the base ready to replace it. Start by pruning down the flower once it has lost its vitality, later when the parent plant (that bloomed) begins to fade, remove it to make room for the next generation, often this can be done by just twisting and pulling on the old dried up rosette.