​Vrisea Hybrid

• ​​​Common name: Vrisea Hybrid
  
• Scientific name: Vrisea spp.
  
• Family: Bromeliaceae
  
• Origin: Central and South America​
• Height: 1 to 2 ft
  
• Width: 1 to 2 ft
  
• Growth: Slow
  
• Zone: USDA Zones 10 and up
  
• Light needs: Indirect or dappled sunlight
  
• Salt tolerance: Low
  
• Soil/pH/Texture: Vriesea species are epiphytic and therefore are best suited to grow on tree bark and branches. If grown in a container or in ground, make sure that the substrate is very well drained, such as with a bark-based medium. The soil pH should be acidic, between 5.5 and 6.5.
  
• Moisture: Water only when soil dries out, as bromeliads get most of their water by absorbing it through their central tank. Tolerant of high humidity.
  
• Drought tolerance: Moderate
  
• Pests/Diseases: Root rot may occur with overwatering. Mosquitoes and other insects may start to breed in the tank if it is not flushed regularly.
  
• Growing conditions: Grow Vriesea bromeliads in a warm area with dappled shade, preferably on a tree branch. Too much direct sunlight may burn its leaves, so it should not be planted out in the open. Most species are suitable for indoor container planting. As an epiphytic plant, its roots absorb little water -they are used mostly for support. Instead, water and nutrients are absorbed through the “tank” formed in the center of the leaves. This area should be flushed out regularly to remove pests and bacteria, but make sure to leave it about ¼ full of water.
  
• Characteristics: Most Vriesea bromeliads are about 1 to 2 ft in height and spread, but many species can get much larger. Although each Vriesea species differs in appearance, there are common traits shared among most members of the genus. The leaves are oblong, glossy, and with an entire, untoothed margin and an apiculate “pinched” apex. Most species have solid green leaves, but some have striped or variegated leaves, such as Vriesea splendens. These leaves are arranged in a rosette, forming a central cup called a ”tank” which collects water and debris. The bromeliad absorbs water and nutrients from this tank. The real distinguishing feature of Vriesea is the flowers. Like many other bromeliads, the flowers emerge from a tall, often brightly colored raceme which grows directly from the center of the plant. Unlike other bromeliads, the individual flowers grow close and compact to the raceme and are flattened, giving the whole inflorescence a paddle or sword-like appearance. The flowers are typically red, orange, or yellow in color and accompanied by several colorful bracts.
  
• Propagation: By offsets.
  
• Wildlife: This group of bromeliads is ecologically important, with many tropical frog species relying on the tanks to carry out their life cycle. Many larger species are hosts to different kinds of insects.
  
• Facts: Some species of this genus are known by the common name “flaming sword” due to the appearance of the inflorescence.
  
• Designer considerations: Plants of this genus are best suited for tree plantings, where their smooth foliage adds texture and color interest. Their flowers are often long-lasting, adding a warm splash of color against duller-colored tree bark. It can also be cultivated in containers to add a tropical ambience to rooms and patios.
  

Location

Bromeliad Island Garden

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Vrisea Hybrid