This variable epiphytic or terrestrial perennial has a short stout stem with upright foliage and producers offsets that form a clump. It has leathery deep green lance shaped leaves and the small yellowish tube-shaped flowers appear amongst colourful bracts.

Hardiness zones 10 to 12

Guzmania lingulatais naturally found from Guatermala in Central America to Columbia and north-east Brazil in South America growing in tropical mountainous rainforests on trees and in the understory as a terrestrial at an altitude from 20 m (66 ft) to 1,500 m (4,921 ft).

It prefers a semi-shaded to shaded humid protected position and grows in very well-drained organic rich moist soil or composted leaf mould as an epiphyte. During summer the foliage response to misting and water should be reduced during winter, and is drought and frost tender.

Scarlet Star is grown for its colourful bracts and its clumping habit. This variable perennial is grown in the understory or on trees in tropical gardens. It is also commonly cultivated as a hothouse specimen in containers or on pseudo-branches and can be mass planted as a ground cover.

It is suitable for coastal and low mountain regions and establishes from division in 2-3 years. This perennial is grown in commercial landscapes such as shopping malls or office foyers and it is also displayed as an indoor pot plant with the flowers lasting for up to 4-months. ID 2651

Guzmania(guz-MAHN-ee-a)lingulata(lin-gyoo-LAH-tuh)

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