A Tropiflora hybrid by Ray Coleman, 2005 (‘Cereza’ f2 x carcharodon ‘Silver). An open rosette to 30 inches across with 3 inch wide, stiff leaves bearing large marginal spines. Medium green leaves blush pink overall, with red tips and even, cream colored striation. The leaves have an overall gray wash, with some faint dark banding below. A light red center flush occurs when blooming. Named to honor Hilo, Hawaii bromeliad breeders/growers David and Sherlette Shiigi.

There’s just something about bromeliads. From their unique shapes and sizes, bright colorful patterns and large, dramatic flowers, these easy-to-care-for houseplants simply scream “indoor jungle.”

The Bromeliad family is native (mostly) to the tropical Americas, and contains over 3,000 species! Some of these are extremely popular – like Air Plants and Pineapple

Find the right light: Some bromeliads are terrestrial (growing in soil) while others are epiphytic (growing on other trees). Whether in trees or on the ground, as tropical natives, they often are found under the jungle canopy, making them well adapted to lower light conditions than, say, succulents and cacti.

Water: Most bromeliads have a very different watering regimen than other houseplants. Even if your bromeliad grows terrestrially in a pot, don’t water the soil! Rather, keep the central “cup” filled with water at all times