Mealybugs are listed on the exact species profile. Inspect before assigning a leaf change to that pest. The profile otherwise reports the plant as generally disease-free.
How to care for a scarlet star bromeliad
Keep soft water in a scarlet star bromeliad’s central tank while its compost stays damp but drains freely.
Plant coveredGuzmania lingulataScarlet star bromeliad · Indoor container
Find a bright, steady position
Light and temperature
Bright filtered light or partial shade is suitable. Protect the leaves from strong direct summer sun.
Warm, humid conditions are preferred. RHS gives about 21°C in summer for bromeliads and rates the exact profile for under-glass conditions above 15°C. No indoor humidity percentage is supplied.
Check the mix, drainage and pot
Watering, drainage and repotting
Keep the compost damp but not soggy during growth, and keep the central tank supplied with soft water. Empty and refill the tank periodically, then water more sparingly in winter.
Use a free-draining bromeliad or epiphytic compost rather than dense, water-retentive soil. A species-specific repot trigger is not established.
Feed only during active growth
Fertilizer and active growth
Check the visible signs before changing care
Common problems
Use the verdict for this exact plant
Pet safety
Sources
- Royal Horticultural SocietyPosition; soil; moisture; cultivation; humidity; temperature; pests
- Royal Horticultural SocietyBright shade; tank watering; compost moisture; winter care; temperature; humidity; drainage
Pet-safety information for catalog plants uses ASPCA reference data where available. It is reference information, not veterinary advice.