The blushing bromeliad is a striking, long-lived bromeliad commonly used as a houseplant but originally found growing on the rain forest floor or on the lower branches of a tree. It uses the tree as an anchor rather than as a food source.
Most bromeliads have a water-holding urn formed by the leaves radiating from the center. They obtain nourishment from the water and airborne debris that collect in it.
The plant can flower at any time of the year. When it is about to flower, the central part of the rosette of leaves becomes purple or bright red, as if it were blushing-thus the name.
Two of the most popular varieties of blushing bromeliads are Neoregelia carolinae, 'Tricolor', and Neoregelia carolinae, 'Marechallii'. They require bright light with some direct sunlight. A high temperature encourages flowering. You should water them when the soil gets dry, but keep the urn full. It helps to add a little fertilizer about every three weeks and to mist the foliage.
Susan Carlile, Smith County Master Gardener
Texas Cooperative Extension
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