This bromeliad is variable and may be terrestrial or epiphytic with a short rhizome and forms a clump. It has arching narrow strap-like grey green leaves and the pendant mauve green tube-shaped flowers appear during summer accompanied by red bracts. 

Hardiness zones 10 to 12 

Billbergia nutans is naturally found from southern Brazil to Paraguay and northern Argentina in altitudes up to 1,700m (5,500ft) growing on trees or around rocks in woodlands or scrub. 

It prefers very well drained humus rich soils and a shaded position but will tolerate full sun and is frost and drought tender.  

The Friendship Plant is a perennial that is grown for its flowers and clumping habit. It is used in rockeries or garden beds as a specimen or planted in containers. It will establish from division in 2 to 3 years and requires little care. It is excellent for small gardens and courtyards tolerating shaded positions producing flowers that are short lived but profuse. ID 1752

Billbergia (bil-BERG-ee-a) nutans (new-TǍNZ)

Bromeliaceae (bro-mee-lee-AY-see-ee)