This is one reason you should find out the names of the plants you purchase.  Just becuase it is a Bromeliad does not mean it will always have the same look or space requirements.

For long lasting color for months in you home the Vriesia is a great choice.

Here's a unique  use of Bromeliads to add color and interest to a Christmas tree. Now this may not be for everyone but don't forget Bromeliads  during the holidays. They provide long term color  and make for long lasting gifts. Yes they are colorful but these houseplants and landscape plants can help you make this holiday season a "green" one! Plus they use no electricity!

Here's another which will be making its way on to the Bromeliad scene in 2008. Neoregelia 'Cookie' is a new introduction in production but will not be available until sometime in 2008.  The picture does not do it justice. It will, without question add color to any home.

How about you? Whats your favorite Bromeliad?

When 'Alergia' blooms, a tall flower stalk full of bright red and pink berries stands tall above the foliage offering a real contrast between light green leaves.

Alegria can be used indoors as a house plant  but will need a lot of bright light. The landscape probably will allow Aechmea 'Alegria' to show off it's true potential in full sun! Finding a decorative container to compliment the plants is also a landscape option in a pool/ deck area.

• When possible plant during the cooler months (October to April) is best. This will give the Bromeliad time to acclimate to the hot summer sun. Planting during the summer months can cause bleached or burned foliage.
• Avoid planting near asphalt, white painted walls or over decorative "white" chips.
• Use mulch minimally… no more than one inch deep.
• Do not fertilize heavily in full sun, this will cause tender growth to burn easily.

We "limit" the size of these house plants assuming they can only be used indoors. With Bromeliads… that simply is not the case. There are varieties you'll most likely never find in any garden center. One nice feature of the south Florida climate gives landscapers the opportunity to use a whole "class" of Bromeliads outdoors in the landscape.

These "landscape" Bromeliads can become hugh… think the size of the hood of your car! Just like their smaller cousins that brighten a room indoors they do the same for the landscape.

Here's a species named - Alcanterea Imperialis… large in size, big on color and a "flower" which can only be described as "wild." Enjoy…

Image courtesy Bullis Bromeliads Miami, Florida.

Notice from the picture the plant on the left shows "tall gangly growth."

This is caused from excessive fertilizer which produces the long curved leaves on the Aechmea fasciata.
 
The Aechmea plant on the right received the correct  amount of fertilizer shown by its more attractive, healthy appearance and proper form.