Back to Bromeliad Island Garden

​Scarlet Star

• ​​​Common name: Scarlet Star
  
• Scientific name: Guzmania lingulata
  
• Family: Bromeliaceae
  
• Origin: Central America​
• Height: 1 to 2 ft
  
• Width: 1 to 2 ft
  
• Growth: Slow
  
• Zone: USDA Zones 10 and up
  
• Light needs: Dappled or indirect light
  
• Salt tolerance: Low
  
• Soil/pH/Texture: As an epiphytic plant, it is best suited to grow on tree bark and branches. It can be grown in-ground or in a container if a free-draining substrate, such as a bark-based potting mix, is used.
  
• Moisture: Allow substrate to dry out between waterings, and water only enough to keep the roots slightly moist. Make sure that the central cup of the plant has water in it constantly, as this is how the plant absorbs water. High air humidity (above 50%) is preferable.
  
• Drought tolerance: Moderate
  
• Pests/Diseases: Root rot may occur if overwatered. Leaf spots, scale, mites, and mealybugs are also potential problems.
  
• Growing conditions: Grow this bromeliad in a warm, humid area. Temperatures below 60 degrees F can stunt growth and even kill the plant. Air humidity should be kept at 50% or above; dry air may also stunt growth. As an epiphyte, it is adapted to grow on trees, which will provide it with good drainage and adequate shade. Cover the roots with a layer of moss to retain a little moisture. The central cup should be flushed out and refilled regularly to remove pests and bacteria.
  
• Characteristics: The leaves are arranged in a basal rosette, forming a star shape with is complimented by the appearance of the flower. The leaves are thick and linear, glabrous green on both sides, with entire margins. The arrangement of the leaves forms a central cup which is used to collect and absorb water and nutrients. The inflorescence consists of a short stem with many colorful bracts arranged in a rosette which is similar to the leaves. The bracts may be red, orange, yellow, or purple depending on the cultivar. The small yellow or white flowers are located at the tip of the inflorescence. The inflorescence often lasts for several months. After flowering, the plant will begin to decline, producing several offsets before it dies.
  
• Propagation: By offsets.
  
• Wildlife: The central cup provides a habitat for frogs and insects.
  
• Facts: The specific epithet “lingulata” means “tongue-shaped”, likely in reference to the leaves and/or bracts. The genus is named after Anastasio Guzman, a Spanish naturalist.
  
• Designer considerations: As with other bromeliads, they make excellent decorations for tree branches. They do very well in low/artificial light, making them a good indoor plant choice for homes as well as office buildings and other buildings. 
  

Location

Bromeliad Island Garden

Scarlet Star