Vriesea imperialis 'Rubra'

Leaves are long and strap-shaped, and dark purple-red. These grow to produce a large rosette-shaped plant which collects water in the centre. Once the plant matures, it produces a 2m flower spike carrying numerous creamy yellow scented flowers which emerge from dark red bracts.

Prefers full sun to shade. If planted in full sun, then the leaf colour will be far stronger.

Always choose healthy, well-grown plants. Planting after autumn rains when the soil is moist and warm allows plants to become established before winter. This enables them to withstand dry periods during the following summer. Before planting ensure that the root-ball is saturated and remove planter bag pot or wrapping with the minimum of root disturbance. Trim any broken roots or leaves and plant at the same level as in the container. Mulch with an organic mulch after planting. This will help suppress weeds and retain moisture.

Apply an organic mulch annually to help suppress weeds and conserve moisture. This plant can have feed applied annually in spring. A balanced fertiliser such as blood and bone at a handful per square metre, but care should be taken not to apply to the leaves or the centre of the plant, just the soil. Alternatively, a foliar liquid feed can be used. However, this plant usually collects the nutrients it requires from the plant debris contained and absorbed in the centre of the plant so feeding isn't essential. This plant needs little maintenance in general and is great for low maintenance gardens. Unfortunately after flowering, it starts to die down but produces small plants around the parent plant. These can be removed and re-planted.

Childrens Garden

This bromeliad collects water and debris in its central rosette. The debris breaks down and the nutrients help feed the plant.