Bromeliads - Which Varieties Hold Color the Longest

Question: I’m looking for information on Bromeliad house plant care. I use potted bromeliads to add splashs of color around the house. Using different varieties and sizes I often put several kinds in a decorative pot and just decorate with bromeliads. Which varieties do you recommend that will last the longest? Patricia, Kansas City, Kansas

Answer: I wish more people would decorate with bromeliads, they offer so much color for long periods of time and can really dress up an area. Perhaps the biggest plus with a potted bromeliad and houseplant care - there isn’t much.

As for which varieties to look for here’s the current "best in potted bromeliads." If you’re going strictly bromeliad flowers the Guzmania varieties will offer the best long lasting color even after they’ve hit their prime.

• Guzmania "Hilda
• Guzmania "Tutti Frutti"
• Guzmaia "Ostara"
• Guzmania "Luna"
• Guzmania "Torch"
• Guzmania ‘Marjan"
• Guzmania "Rana"

Guzmania’s let you mix things up get a good rotation of color with all the flower shades and color at your disposal.

If bromeliad flowers are not the primary focus but color overall the Neoregelia family is hard to beat. They hold up well and the foliage gives lots of accent opportunities.

Finding a nice decorative pot and creating a Bromeliad garden is very easy to do. Just find some varieties you like and put them together. As one fades out just replace it. A great way to add a new splash of color to any room.

Check with your local nursery or garden center and find out when they receive new bromeliad shipments, it’s every week or two. Plan on getting the freshest plants, longest color and best selection as soon as they come in.

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