Guzmania lingulata

Guzmania lingulata

Scarlet Star

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Taxonomy

Common Names

Scarlet StarDroophead Tufted Airplant

Context

nativeRegion

Tropical rainforests of Central and South America.

usdaZones

10-12, grown as a houseplant in cooler zones.

companionPlants

Tillandsia, Neoregalia, Aechmea, Ferns

culturalUses

Ornamental plant valued for colorful bracts and easy indoor culture; used in air purification studies.

Care

LightBright, indirect light; avoid direct sun which can scorch leaves.

WateringKeep central cup (rosette) filled with distilled or rainwater; water soil lightly. Allow soil to dry slightly between waterings.

SoilWell-draining, loose mix such as orchid bark and peat; avoid heavy, compacted soils.

FertilizerFeed monthly during growing season with diluted, balanced fertilizer; apply to the central cup or soil.

HumidityPrefers high humidity (60-80%); mist regularly or use a humidifier.

TemperatureWarm temperatures between 18-27°C (65-80°F); avoid cold drafts and temperatures below 12°C (54°F).

HabitEpiphytic or terrestrial perennial rosette with strappy leaves; striking central bract.

Mature Size30-60 cm tall and wide (12-24 in).

Growth RateModerate grower.

BloomingProduces bright red, orange, or yellow bracts with inconspicuous white flowers, typically late spring or summer; blooms once per rosette.

DormancyNo true dormancy; slight slowdown in winter.

MethodsOffsets (pups), Seed

DifficultyEasy via offsets, moderate via seed.

Best SeasonAfter flowering, once pups are half the size of parent.

PruningRemove spent flower stalks and dead leaves to promote airflow.

RepottingRepot only when clump outgrows container; prefers slightly root-bound.

Pests & DiseasesGenerally pest-free; watch for scale, mealybugs, and rot if overwatered.

ToxicityNon-toxic to pets and humans.

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