Guzmania

Bromeliad is an indoor perennial herb that grows up to 3'3" and has long strap-like green leaves. This plant is desired for the beautiful, long-lasting, torch-like inflorescence. The inflorescence along with the untoothed, unmarked leaves help to differentiate this genus from Aechmea, Neoregalia, and Vriesia. As an epiphyte, this plant requires nearly no water at its base, but its central case must be kept full of water and replaced periodically.

In indoor settings, this plant needs high light, dry soil, medium relative humidity, and the central vase kept full of water. Plant in a mixture for bromeliads or make your own with ingredients such as peat moss, vermiculite, and bark. Allow the soil to dry completely after watering. Offsets will appear at the base after the bloom fades and can be removed and started as new plants as the mother plant will soon fade and die. Fertilize by spraying 1/2 strength orchid fertilizer on the leaves in spring or summer and only 1-2 times per year.

This plant has no pest or disease problems.

Species G. linguate features an inflorescence with bright red, orange, or pink bracts and white flowers. 

Quick ID Hints:

• Leaves are entire and generally unmarked
• Inflorescence is torch-like at the end of the flower scape

VIDEO Created by Elisabeth Meyer for "Edibles, Bulbs, and Houseplants" a plant identification course offered in partnership with Longwood Gardens.