Bromelia

( broh - MEE - lee - uh )

At-A-Glance Information

Commonly called Heart of Flame, this genus of perennial plants requires full sun and regular water. They are relatives of the Pineapple plant, and are native to South America, growing best in zones 

Bromelia species and varietals

The genus Bromelia is a member of the plant family Bromeliaceae and includes 70 species. It is named for Swedish medical doctor and botanist Olof Bromelius. Bromelia plants grow well in zones 13, 19-24, H1 and H2, though this varies somewhat depending on the species. For more growing information, see the descriptions below. To find your zone, click here: Zone Map.

Bromelia antiacantha
This species is native to Brazil and Uruguay. and produces a large rosette of spiny foliage that ranges in color. Flower infloresences are conspicuous and pink to white, raising well above the foliage before fading to reveal edible, acidic-flavored fruits. These plants are capable of forming colonies via underground stolons, and can be grown either in pots or in the ground.

Bromelia balansae
Reaching 4 feet tall and 4-6 feet wide, these plants display beautiful green foliage that turns scarlet in spring or early summer. Pink flowers with white edges form on a spike. These plants are native to Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, Bolivia, and Paraguay.​

Bromelia hieronymi
Native to Argentina, Bolivia, and Paraguay, this species of Bromelia is not self-fertile. Fruits are said to have anti-inflammatory properties.

Bromelia palmeri
Endemic to southwestern Mexico, this perennial species produces a ground-level rosette of strappy, rigid blue-green foliage. Flower inflorescence rises above the foliage clump to showcase yellow flowers.

Bromelia pinguin
This species is native to Central America, Mexico, the West Indies and northern South America. It is very commonly seen in Jamaica.

Caring for Bromelia balansae

These plants need warm nights and excellent drainage, but are not picky about soil. Provide with light shade in Zone 13, and feed with a light fertilizer once or twice in summertime.

Harvesting Bromelia

Propagation

Problems and Pests

Gallery

Camellias are great candidates to be grown as container plants on your patio.
A field of thea sinensis
Camellia hiemalis 'Shishi Gashira'

Videos

A video all about growing camellias successfully
Propagating camellias

Resources

Wikipedia: Bromelia
The New Sunset Western Garden Book: The Ultimate Gardening Guide (2012) - Page 204, Bromelia balansae
If you have any questions, comments, concerns, or photos you’d like to add to the gallery, please let me know by sending me a message using the button below!
​