RHS An evergreen, terrestrial bromeliad to 2m with stout stems each ending in a spreading rosette of tough, narrow, silver leaves up to 60cm long with hooked spines along the margins. In summer, mature plants produce narrow, tubular, dark blue flowers clustered in upright spikes 40cm or more tall
1.5-2.5 metres
1.5-2.5 metres
| Season | Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spring | ||||
| Summer | ||||
| Autumn | ||||
| Winter |
Under glass grow in terrestrial bromeliad compost in full light. Water moderately when in active growth in mid-spring to late summer and apply a low nitrogen fertiliser every 6-8 weeks. Plants will tolerate temperatures below 0°C for brief periods if acclimatised to cool winter conditions. In warm, sheltered gardens grow plants outdoors in a sunny spot in sharply draining soil and protect from winter wet
Propagate by seed sown at 19-24°C as soon as ripe
No pruning required
May be susceptible to scale insects
Susceptible to root rots in wet soils