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8 Interesting Facts About Bromeliads

November 1, 2016


If you aren’t familiar with bromeliads, you’re in for a real treat. These inexpensive and easy-to-grow plants are actually quite fascinating. To see what we mean, check out this list of eight interesting facts about bromeliads.

1. Chances are, you actually HAVE heard of bromeliads

That’s because the most famous bromeliad is already in the produce section of your local grocery store – Guzmania or Vriesea Other famous bromeliads? Pineapple or Spanish moss. And with more than 2,700 known varieties of bromeliads, this plant family has tons of variety. 

2. Bromeliads grow all year 

Unlike seasonal plants, it’s always bromeliad season. While they can be planted outdoors, they tend to do best when kept in consistent warm temperatures indoors.

3. The blooms last an extremely long time

Bromeliad flowers last for many months, depending on the age of the plant. Since they require such minimal care, even the most novice gardener can enjoy long-lasting blooms.

4. However, bromeliads only bloom once

Though there are some exceptions, the majority of bromeliads bloom just once. But don’t worry: Your mother plant will produce new plantlets—also called “pups”—allowing your bromeliad to be constantly in bloom, even once the original plant is done flowering.

5. Whatever you do, don’t overwater

Bromeliads are incredibly resilient plants, but overwatering is one of the main ways to keep your plant from thriving. Instead, just add a small amount of water to the leaf cup, the very center of your plant’s overlapping leaves once a week.

6. Bromeliads love tropical climates

Most bromeliads are native to Brazil, so indoor plants do best when kept away from drafts and in temperatures above 55 degrees.

7. Pests aren’t usually a problem

While there are some exceptions, pests don’t tend to gravitate toward bromeliads. As long as you aren’t overwatering your plant and keep it in a well-ventilated area, you likely won’t have to worry about pests—save the occasional scale insects that are easily wiped away.

8. Bromeliads get their nutrients from their leaves

Bromeliads use their roots for balance, not for transferring nutrients. Instead, the leaves take in all of the water and nutrients the plant needs. Some species of bromeliads even grow on rocks or trees.

These versatile and exotic plants can add significant intrigue and beauty to your home décor—and these eight interesting facts are just the beginning. You can learn more about bromeliads here.

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