Propagation
Sow fresh seed when ripe and maintain a temperature of 19º to 27º C. (66º to 81º F).
Divide offsets during spring.
Botanic information
Leaf: The glossy dark green lanceolate leaves are arranged in dense rosettes and are broad and leathery with spiny margins and a cuspidate apex.
Flower: The tiny bluish tubulate flowers are arranged in a compact central umbel-like inflorescence that is enclosed with red bracts. The flowers are long lasting and appear during summer.
Fruit: The small seed is not commonly seen and the plant is normally reproduced vegetatively.
Note
Temperature
The plants require a minimum temperature of 12.7ºC (55ºF)and may require a temperature of 24ºC (75ºF)to produce flowers.
Light
Most exotic bromeliaeds require bright indirect light only plants simular to Pineapples requiring full sun.
Water
These plants require well drained media and should be watered regular and kept moist but not wet. The vase forms should be filled with fresh water monthly and a humid environment is required. This may be achieved with regular misting of the foliage. Foliar fertiliser may be sprayed onto the foliage every 4 to 5 weeks during summer.
Ribbon Bush is an autumn flowering shrub that is grown as a border plant in small gardens or as an understorey plant. It is also planted in containers and in cool climates under glass as a specimen. It has a fast growth rate and establishes in 1 to 2 years and is moderately long lived.