A magnificent giant bromeliad forming a broad sculptural rosette over a metre across, often flushed wine-red, eventually throwing a towering branched flower spike. A dramatic architectural feature plant.
At a glance
- Plant type: Perennial
- Mature size: 1.2 m H × 1.3 m W
- Aspect: full sun and part shade or morning sun
- Water: happy on low water
- Frost: tender
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Giant Bromeliad
Alcantarea imperialis is a slow-growing perennial in the Bromeliaceae family. It reaches around 1.2 m tall and 1.3 m wide at maturity, with evergreen and purple-toned foliage. White flowers appear in summer.
Where to grow Giant Bromeliad
Giant Bromeliad suits subtropical and warm-temperate climates and grows best in full sun and part shade or morning sun. It is frost tender, so protect it from hard frosts or grow it in a sheltered spot or pot. It also tolerates salt-laden coastal winds.
Soil & planting
Giant Bromeliad does best in free-draining soil. Dig in plenty of compost before planting, water in well, and mulch to keep roots cool.
Watering & feeding
Giant Bromeliad is happy on low water, so once its roots are down it needs little supplementary water. A feed in spring with a balanced fertiliser keeps growth strong. In its first year, water deeply once or twice a week to settle the roots in, then taper off as it establishes.
Pruning & care
Prune Giant Bromeliad after flowering to keep it compact and encourage the next flush of blooms. Overall it is low maintenance.
Using Giant Bromeliad in the garden
Giant Bromeliad earns its place for a feature or specimen planting and pots and courtyard containers. It is equally at home in the ground or a large pot on a balcony or courtyard.
Companion planting & design
For a cohesive, low-care bed, pair Giant Bromeliad with other plants that enjoy the same happy on low water and subtropical climate. Group three or five together for impact rather than dotting single plants through the garden.
Good to know
It is regarded as non-toxic and pet-safe.
Buying Giant Bromeliad
Plant Sale lists Giant Bromeliad as potted plants. Stock isn't live yet — register your interest using the panel above and we'll email you the moment we have it ready.