Bird Rock Tropicals
Guzmania

Guzmania has more than 150 species, nearly all tank-forming.  Some have colorful leaves, but most are shiny dark green.  Their inflorescences are their most desirable asset; these may be compact heads or elongated spikes resembling fountains.  Color may develop in large primary bracts, the central leaves, the flowers, or all of these.  A flowering plant remains colorful for many months.

Most guzmanias grow in montane tropical forests in wetter, cooler, shadier habitats than most other bromeliads.  They need more care but can grow well if one pay attention to their needs.  Many hybrids are adapted to the home environment.

 LIGHT: Guzmanias can adapt to darker conditions than other bromeliads.  Many will do well at 1000 to 2000 footcandles.  For this reason they do especially well in the low light of most homes.

 TEMPERATURE:  Many guzmanias do not tolerate extreme summer heat, especially sultry night, but others do.  Night temperatures of 60° - 68° F (16° to 20° C) are ideal for most.

WATERING:  Water quality is very important for guzmanias.  They are extremely intolerant of hard, alkaline, or salty water.  Flush the water in the center with bottled or rain water frequently and the plants should do well.

 POTTING:  The potting medium must be acidic.  A 1:1 mix of coarse peat moss and fir bark produces good results.  The addition of some dolomite lime to provide needed calcium and magnesium is also recommended (only a little – it’s alkaline).

 FEEDING:  Use an acidic fertilizer without boron, zinc, or copper micronutrients.  Add slow release fertilizer to the potting mix.  Use liquid fertilizer only if very dilute.

(Reprinted from Bromeliads A Cultural Manual, The Bromeliad Society, Inc.)