A glossy green rosette crowned with a long-lasting star of brilliant scarlet, orange or yellow bracts. One of the most popular flowering bromeliads for indoors and shaded tropical displays.
At a glance
- Plant type: Perennial
- Mature size: 35 cm H × 40 cm W
- Aspect: part shade or morning sun and shade and low-light positions
- Water: regular, moderate watering
- Frost: tender
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Scarlet Star
Guzmania lingulata is a slow-growing perennial in the Bromeliaceae family. It reaches around 35 cm tall and 40 cm wide at maturity, with evergreen foliage. Red and orange flowers appear for much of the year.
Where to grow Scarlet Star
Scarlet Star suits tropical and subtropical climates and grows best in part shade or morning sun and shade and low-light positions. It is frost tender, so protect it from hard frosts or grow it in a sheltered spot or pot.
Soil & planting
Scarlet Star does best in free-draining soil. Dig in plenty of compost before planting, water in well, and mulch to keep roots cool.
Watering & feeding
Scarlet Star is regular, moderate watering. 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 Scarlet Star after flowering to keep it compact and encourage the next flush of blooms. Overall it is low maintenance.
Using Scarlet Star in the garden
Scarlet Star earns its place for pots and courtyard containers and a feature or specimen planting. 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 Scarlet Star with other plants that enjoy the same regular, moderate watering and tropical 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 Scarlet Star
Plant Sale lists Scarlet Star as potted plants. Stock isn't live yet — register your interest using the panel above and we'll email you the moment it is available.