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. Plant into well-prepared ground, firm the soil around the roots and water deeply to settle it in.
Watering & feeding
Scarlet Star does best with regular, moderate watering. Apply a balanced fertiliser in spring to support healthy growth. Keep a newly planted specimen evenly watered through its first season; established plants can then follow the water needs above.
Pruning & care
Prune Scarlet Star after flowering to keep it compact and encourage the next flush of blooms. Its ongoing care level 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
Build the planting around neighbours suited to the same regular, moderate watering and tropical climate as Scarlet Star. Repeating the foliage or flower colour nearby will make the composition feel deliberate.
Good to know
It is regarded as non-toxic and pet-safe.
Buying Scarlet Star
Plant Sale lists Scarlet Star as potted plants. Use the interest form above to check current sizes, pricing and availability before ordering.
