Let's discuss how to grow these beauties . . .
Above: some tantalizing Vrieseas grown primarily for their dazzling foliage.
from the 2017 show
The genus Vriesea is a large group of relatively diverse plants. Many think of them as shade-lovers, but many in the genus like bright light. With just a few exceptions, most do not like full afternoon sun here in Southern California. While there are a few Vrieseas that look like xeric (dry-loving) Tillandsias, let's talk about the majority of Vrieseas that appreciate regular moisture.
There are some that are grown for their showy and exotic flower display, like the plant at left. And some [like those shown in the 4 photos below] are admired for their colorful and wild foliage patterns. Grow these in a free-draining potting media with some organic bark and/or chucks of coir. Be aware that many of these beauties are not particularly fond of the municipal water delivered to our taps. It's salty, "hard" water -- quite unlike the pure rain water and misty fog drip of their homelands. That said, many will grow perfectly well on tap water with only minor evidence of salt burn.
A growing tip from Morlane who grows these so well: flush out the rosettes of your Vrieseas every once in a while.
There are some that are grown for their showy and exotic flower display, like the plant at left. And some [like those shown in the 4 photos below] are admired for their colorful and wild foliage patterns. Grow these in a free-draining potting media with some organic bark and/or chucks of coir. Be aware that many of these beauties are not particularly fond of the municipal water delivered to our taps. It's salty, "hard" water -- quite unlike the pure rain water and misty fog drip of their homelands. That said, many will grow perfectly well on tap water with only minor evidence of salt burn.
A growing tip from Morlane who grows these so well: flush out the rosettes of your Vrieseas every once in a while.
This used to be a Vriesea, but now it's a Goudaea: Goudaea ospinae gruberi 'Hawaiian Magic'
Vriesea 'Arden Amour' x 'Golden Radiance'
A slideshow of John Arden hybrid Vrieseas
