Bromeliads That Can Take Sun

Hohenbergia castellanosii

• According to Moyna Prince, from the Bromeliad Society of South Florida, Hohenbergia castellanosii is the species of bromeliad that can best handle the full sun. It is a large and hearty bromeliad with broad, green, upright leaves. As the leaves receive sun, they turn bright red.

Alcantarea and Androlepis

• Alcantarea genus, including species like Alcantarea imperialis and Alcantarea odorata, is a large bromeliad genus that requires as much as 15 years to reach maturity. These are desirable species for their tolerance to both extreme heat and extreme cold. Androlepis is another large and hearty genus of bromeliads that tolerate sun.

Aechmea and Neoregelia

• The Aechmea genus, including the Aechmea blanchetiana and Aechmea mexicana, tolerates full sun and is popular for the hearty blooms that last longer than many other bromeliad blooms. These plants vary greatly in shape and in color, and can be green, black, purple or red. The Neoregelia genus also includes species that vary in shape and color, and are popular because they are hearty and easy to grow.

Growing Tips

• Plant your bromeliads in areas that provide shade during the hottest part of the day. To minimize sun damage and burnt leaves, plant them during the fall or the spring. Plant them away from areas that are painted bright white, as the refection from the sun hitting the white surface can burn the foliage. Use mulch and fertilizers sparingly.