Billbergia nutans 'Variegata' (v)
A moderate-to fast growing bromeliad, with cream coloured striped variegation on it's strap-like leaves. In summer, branched vibrant pink flower stems emerge to 15cm (6in) topped by pendulous green-pink flowers with blue edged petals.
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Size
Ultimate height
0.1–0.5 metresTime to ultimate height
1–2 yearsUltimate spread
0.5–1 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Variegated | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Green Pink Blue | Variegated | ||
| Autumn | Variegated | |||
| Winter | Variegated |
Position
- Partial shade
Aspect
East–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Sheltered Hardiness
H2Botanical details
- Family
- Bromeliaceae
- Native to the UK
- No
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Habit
- Clump forming
- Genus
Billbergia are evergreen, rosette-forming perennials with linear or strap-shaped leaves and panicles or racemes of tubular flowers, usually with colourful bracts
- Name status
Unresolved
How to grow
Cultivation
Under glass, grow epiphytically (attached to a branch or bark mount) or in containers of compost in bright indirect light. Keep the central funnel filled with fresh water. In growth water freely and apply a well-balanced fertiliser monthly; at other times spray once a week with soft/rain water.
Propagation
Sow seed at 27°C (81°C) as soon as ripe. Root offsets in summer.
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Houseplants
- Conservatory and greenhouse
Pruning
No pruning required. Remove withered leaves and flowers as necessary.
Pests
May be susceptible to scale insects.
Diseases
Generally disease-free
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