Vriesea flammea

Description

A very nice miniature bromeliad, which stays around 6 inches tall and forms stoloniferous clumps.

It comes from Brazil, where it grows on trees or rocks in wet rainforests

This species is relatively rare in the plant hobby, but is truly fantastic, and a must for any miniature plant collector.

Foliage & Growth habit

The leaves are somewhat upright, dull green, with a purplish base, slightly wavy edges, and sparse purplish spots or mottling.

The plant has a very bulbous shaped base, with bulging leaf sheaths that are capable of holding quite a bit of water compared to the size of the plant.

Flowers

This species forms an upright, red and white inflorescence, with white blooms.

Culture info

In a hurry? See the care summary.

Substrate

As long as the leaf rosette has water in it, and the plant is misted frequently, this species does not require soil.

That said, it will do best if grown potted in a substrate.

A good substrate mix for Vriesea flammea is moist, but well drained and breathable, for example:

• Fine bark (Fir or Pine fines, Radiata bark, etc)
• Peat
• Perlite (small to medium grade, and only 10-20% of the mix overall)

You can browse the substrates list on my Amazon page to see some of the substrates that I use for my plants and terrariums, as well as the substrate recipes page for examples and ideas.

Water

The plant should be misted frequently, especially if grown in low humidity.

It is fine for the plant to “hold water” in the leaf rosette, like a tank bromeliad.

Humidity

In my experience, it is capable of withstanding humidity levels down to around 35%-40% without any foliage issues, if misted daily and kept in a moist substrate. It grows better in 50% or higher humidity, and would probably do very well in a large vivarium, grow tent, or greenhouse.

Light

A range from low to medium-bright light is ideal. Avoid extremely bright or hot light.

By the way, I have a video that shows and discusses the lights I use for my plants, as well as a tutorial series for how to set up a grow rack.

Temperature

Intermediate to warm temperatures. Avoid cool or cold temps.

Air Movement & Ventilation

Good air flow is important, especially if grown in very humid conditions.
Avoid having the foliage stay wet for long periods which could lead to fungal or bacterial issues.

Fertilizer

The best fertilizer is a formulation made specifically for Bromeliads, for example Grow More Tillandsia and Bromeliad food (view on Amazon).

Propagation

Stoloniferous pups can be cut off when at least ⅓ to ½ the size of the mother plant.

Quick Care Summary

• Moist but well drained substrate (fine bark, peat, perlite)
• Frequent misting, water OK to sit in leaf cups
• Medium to high humidity
• Medium light
• Intermediate to warm temperatures
• Good air flow
• Bromeliad fertilizer
• Propagate via pup separation