Billbergia nutans

Billbergia nutans

Queen’s Tears

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Taxonomy

Common Names

Queen’s TearsFriendship Plant

Context

nativeRegion

Southeastern Brazil, Paraguay, Uruguay, and Argentina.

usdaZones

9–11; grown indoors elsewhere.

companionPlants

Other Bromeliads, Ferns, Orchids

culturalUses

Popular ornamental for its unusual, colorful blooms; called 'Queen’s Tears' for the nectar that drips from flowers.

Care

LightBright, indirect light; tolerates some direct sun but prefers filtered conditions.

WateringWater moderately; keep central cup filled with water, let soil dry slightly between waterings.

SoilWell-draining, airy bromeliad or orchid mix with bark and perlite.

FertilizerDilute balanced liquid fertilizer monthly during growing season, especially in the cup and soil.

HumidityPrefers high humidity (50–70%), but adapts well to average indoor humidity.

TemperatureOptimal range is 15–27°C (60–80°F); not frost-tolerant.

HabitEpiphytic or terrestrial rosette forming clumps; upright tubular leaves.

Mature Size30–45 cm tall (12–18 inches), similar spread.

Growth RateModerate growth; produces offsets after maturity.

BloomingProduces pendulous pink and green inflorescence, typically spring to summer.

DormancyNo true dormancy; growth slows in cooler months.

MethodsDivision of offsets (pups), Seed (rarely used)

DifficultyEasy via pups

Best SeasonSpring to early summer

PruningRemove spent flowers and dead leaves to encourage new offsets.

RepottingRepot every 2–3 years or when overcrowded, using fresh airy mix.

Pests & DiseasesGenerally pest-resistant; may experience mealybugs, scale, or root rot if overwatered.

ToxicityNon-toxic to humans and pets.

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