Neoregelia

Neoregelias are in the bromeliad family and there are about 100 species. They are compact plants from 2 inches tall to 1 foot tall and up to 2 feet wide. They typically form a “cup” in the middle which gathers water and debris for nutrition  Their leaves are often spotted, banded, or marbled with spines along the margins. The central leaves will often turn red when getting ready to bloom. 

They generally tolerate temperatures from 50 to 90 degrees and need a sunny spot in the house for the best leaf color. Plant in a soilless medium to provide a well-drained environment. Keep the center vase filled with freshwater- rainwater is best and allow the potting medium to dry completely between waterings.

The flowers are small and appear in the center vase with tubular blooms opening a few at a time. This plant is generally grown for its leaves more than the flowers. Once the plant has finished blooming, it will form "pups" at the base of the plant which when big enough can be removed and repotted. The mother plant will fade and die.

Pests and Problems: leaf spots, bacterial soft rot (especially if too wet), scale insects, mealybugs

Quick ID Hints:

• Leaves are toothed 
• The inflorescence is sessile at the center
• Leaf bases often blush red at flowering time