Vriesea care guide
Vriesea
Also known as: Flaming sword, Vriesea splendens
Pets and children
We haven't been able to confirm how this plant affects pets or small children. If any is eaten, consult a veterinarian or a doctor.
How often to water Vriesea
- Spring–Summer (Mar–Sep)
- Every 4 days
- Keep water in the leaf rosette and change it now and then, as a guide; keep the mix fairly dry, moistening it a little when the surface dries.
- Autumn (Oct–Nov)
- Every 7 days
- Change the water in the rosette about weekly and give the mix a little a day or two after it dries.
- Winter (Dec–Feb)
- Every 10 days
- In the cold season leave the rosette empty and only lightly moisten the mix about a few days after it dries.
Light and placement for Vriesea
About the brightness behind a sheer curtain is right; the banding on the leaves shows best in good light, but direct sun scorches them brown.
Overwintering Vriesea
Overwintering guide: 10°C (50°F) or above
Overwinter it in a room that stays above about 10°C; direct heater draft browns the leaf tips, so keep it away from vents and reduce watering.
Fertilizing and repotting Vriesea
Fertilizer
From May to September, liquid fertilizer diluted weaker than the label about once a month on the mix at the base; it needs little, and none in winter.
When to repot
Spring–Summer (Mar–Sep)
Common problems with Vriesea
- Overwatering the mix rots the plant from the base.
- Dry heated air browns the leaf tips.
- Direct sun leaves scorch marks on the leaves.
Tips for growing Vriesea
- The flower spike lasts for months; the parent then dies back and the offsets take over.
- Separate offsets, with a few roots attached, once they reach a third to half the parent's size.
- Pot it in sphagnum moss or bark, something that drains and breathes well.
These are AI-generated general guidelines. They vary with the variety, the placement and the pot size. For effects on pets or children, consult a veterinarian or a doctor.
Keep your plant log going
Greenery is a free app that keeps your plant care going, with watering reminders and photo records. Available on iOS and Android.
