Guzmania – bromeliad

Description

Guzmania – There are about 180 species of virtually stemless, evergreen, mainly epiphytic perennials (bromeliads), in this genus. They occur in South Florida, Central America, the West Indies, and North and Western South America. They occur mainly in the Andean rainforest, to 11,500′ feet high. They produce lance shaped leaves which form a funnel shaped rosettes, above or within which flower heads of tubular, white or yellow flowers, usually surrounded by colorful floral bracts, are borne on conspicuous, yellow, orange, or bright red stems, in summer, Where temperatures drop below 59 degrees Fahrenheit, grow in a warm greenhouse or as a houseplant. Indoors, grow in epiphytic bromeliad potting mix in bright filtered or indirect light, or grow epiphytically on artificial tree branches. When in growth, mist daily, preferably in the ealry morning. In winter, keep barely moist and do not mist. Keep vase filled with water when in growth. Fertilize only when in full growth, during the warmer months. Prone to mealybugs, and fungi causing leaf spots.