18 Top Bromeliad Varieties for Lots of Tropical Color

Bromeliads are wildly colorful plants with big, bold, and tropical flowers in oranges, purples, pinks, and other bright tones. Those flowers are complemented beautifully by these plants’ vivid leaves that are often patterned in spots, stripes, and more. A perfect plant for livening up houseplant collections, it’s no wonder why bromeliads are so popular among houseplant keepers.

A variety of brightly colored bromeliad plants — A full understanding of bromeliads will gain you a higher appreciation of them.

But as popular as bromeliads are, they are often poorly understood plants. Bromeliads grow differently than many other houseplants and are monocarps that only bloom once in their lifetimes. What’s more, many plant enthusiasts don’t know just varied this plant family is – there are over 3700 different recognized species of bromeliads today!

If you’re new to the world of bromeliads or you want to learn more about how varied these intriguing plants can be, this guide is for you. Below, we’ll cover some of the top types of bromeliads to keep if you love colorful plants, and we’ll discuss what makes each bromeliad variety so special.

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18 top bromeliad varieties for lots of tropical color

Brightly colored pink, yellow, and orange bromeliads — Bromeliads are perfect for bringing color and pattern to your houseplants.

Some bromeliads come from steamy rainforests and love moisture, while others grow in more arid conditions and can handle drought. Flower bloom size, color, and shape can vary too, and leaves can be solid green or ornamented with patterns. In the following list, we’ve compiled some of the most popular bromeliad varieties that show just how diverse this plant family really is.

1. Aechmea (Aechmea spp.)

Aechmea bromeliad plant — Aechmea is a good bromeliad choice for beginners.

One of the most popular types of bromeliads for home growers, there are actually 250 different species of Aechmea, so there’s a lot of variety to choose from. Native to the Caribbean, Mexico, and South America, these tropical plants are named for their spear-shaped leaves (“Aechmea” comes from the Greek word for “spear tip”). However, most growers today choose to keep these plants for their playful, spiked, central flower heads that come in lots of bright colors.

Aechmeas are low-maintenance bromeliads and well-suited for beginning growers. They can thrive in a range of lighting conditions, including part shade, but they should be shielded from intense, bright light. Just make sure the plant’s central cup is always filled with water and refresh water occasionally to prevent an overgrowth of bacteria.

2. Tufted air plant (Guzmania spp.)

Pink Guzmania bromeliad — The easy-growing Guzmania bromeliads are what you will often find in stores.

One of the most common bromeliad types, most bromeliads that you’ll find at your local garden center will fall into the Guzmania genus. These wildly popular bromeliads are easy to grow, and there are over 120 different species to choose from, so you can usually find a bit of variety for your houseplant collection. Guzmania bromeliads are mostly prized for their brightly colored, spiky flowers that come in purples, reds, yellows, and other hues.

Easy to care for, tufted air plants should be potted in well-draining soil, such as an orchid potting mix. They’ll grow best in higher humidity situations and should be placed in filtered light to avoid sun-scorched leaves. Keep your plant’s central cup full of distilled, filtered, or rainwater, and don’t forget to refresh the water regularly too!

3. Pineapple (Ananas comosus)

A small pineapple growing on a bromeliad plant — Did you know? Pineapples are bromeliads! In fact, they are the only edible-fruiting bromeliad.

Did you know that the pineapple fruit you can buy in your local produce section is actually a type of bromeliad? That’s right! And, thanks to that delicious fruit, this is one of the most commonly grown bromeliad species around.

Native to South America, pineapples have the classic rosette of leaves like other bromeliads, and pineapple fruit forms at the very center of those leaves. To support their growth, pineapples will need plenty of bright, indirect light and should be fertilized every 2 weeks once flowers form. Just keep in mind that while most bromeliads are classed as non-toxic and pet-safe, immature pineapples can cause issues if ingested.

4. Earth star (Cryptanthus spp.)

Pink and green "earth star" bromeliad — Bromeliads in the genus Cryptanthus are more commonly known as "earth stars".

There are about 1200 different species of bromeliads within the genus Cryptanthus, but most plant keepers know them by their nickname “earth stars.” These colorful plants have brightly toned leaves in pinks and greens; some even come in striped and variegated colorings! Many earth stars tend to stay small, too, so they are well suited for terrarium growing.

Earth stars are beginner-friendly plants and don’t need a lot of fuss. These hardy plants can handle some drought, but they do better when watered regularly. For best results, locate your earth star in bright, indirect light and provide them with a bit of extra humidity with a pebble tray or humidifier.

5. Billbergia (Billbergiaspp.)

Billbergia bromeliad trailing long pink flowers — Billbergia do best at temperatures of around 70 F, which means they are ideal for keeping as houseplants.

There are 60 different species of Billbergia bromeliads, and there’s a lot of variety between them in terms of appearance and growing requirements. Some Billbergia, like Billbergia novena, have wonderfully spotted leaves, while other species, like Billbergia saundersii, have vibrantly colored flowers that look a bit like delicate orchids blooms.

Many Billbergia are found naturally at high altitudes, which makes them better suited for growing in cooler locations. That means these plants can sometimes be kept outdoors in moderate climates, but they make fine houseplants too. Billbergia can grow at temperatures between 26°F to 100°F, although they do best when kept at around 70°F.

6. Nidularium (Nidularium spp.)

Little Nest Nidularium bromeliad — High humidity is key to successfully growing Nidularium bromeliads.

Nidularium means “little nest” in Latin, which describes these charming bromeliads perfectly, as their central flowers are compact and slightly resemble a bird nest in shape. There are 25 different species of Nidularium with flower colors ranging from purple to red to white. Particularly striking varieties, like Nidularium leprosa, boast spotted leaves, while other intriguing species include Nidularium innocentii and Nidularium fulgens.

Nidularium bromeliads grow best at higher than-average indoor humidity levels – somewhere between 60 and 70% is best, so you may want to add a humidifier to your setup. These plants are slow growing but can reach between 15 and 50” in height when fully mature, depending on the species. Nidularium prefers bright, filtered light, as too much bright sun can overwhelm their leaves.

7. Catopsis (Catopsis spp.)

Catopsis bromeliad plant — If you're looking for a more subtle and less showy bromeliad, Catopsis is a good choice.

Catopsis are more subtle bromeliads, so if you want a bromeliad with oversized blooms, these may not be the plants for you. However, Catopsis are still intriguing plants, and their graceful forms can add a bit of contrast if you have a collection of assorted bromeliads.

Catopsis are a variety of Tillandsia (or air plants) and grow as epiphytes in nature. There are 21 known species of Catopsis currently.

Catopsis bromeliads have longer leaves than most bromeliads, and leaves have smooth, not serrated, edges. Leaf undersides are naturally coated with a fine, white powder, while flowers are delicately formed and come in yellow and white.

8. Air plants (Tillandsia spp.)

AN air plant planted in a glass bulb — Those fun little air plants are bromeliads, too!

You may not think of it, but air plants are actually a type of bromeliad! In fact, there are over 650 different types of air plants within the Tillandsia family. That means you’ll have plenty of plants to choose from if you’d like to pick up an air plant… or five!

Air plants are epiphytes in nature and use their aerial roots to anchor themselves to tree branches and bark, so they should not be planted in soil. Instead, many plant parents choose to get crafty when mounting their air plants and may gently secure them with a bit of fishing line to driftwood or mount them in adorable hanging planters. If you’re into DIY, this homemade sea urchin air plant hanger is super cute and easy to make.

9. Canistropsis (Canistropsis spp.)

Canistropsis bromeliad plant — Canistropsis will bring big color to small spaces.

There are 11 different species of Canistropsis bromeliads, including Canistropsis seidelii and Canistropsis elata. Native to the tropical forests of Brazil, these gorgeous plants feature a brightly colored central flower that can come in pinks, yellows, and oranges.

These plants should be potted up in rich, well-draining soil that is kept regularly moist but never soggy. Provide your plants with bright, indirect light and feed them during the growing season with a fertilizer diluted to half strength to keep from overwhelming your plant. Once mature, Canistropsis bromeliads will stay quite petite and are suitable for small spaces.

10. Hechtia (Hechtia spp.)

Hechtia is a genus that contains about 75 different bromeliad species, like Hechtia argentea and Hechtia lanata. What’s surprising about these plants is that they have spiky, lance-shaped leaves that make them look a lot like cacti or succulents -- but they are bromeliads!

Hechtia bromeliads are naturally found in drier areas and in rocky outcroppings or sandy soil. When kept indoors, you’ll want to be careful about how much you water these plants because they don’t need a lot of moisture. Be sure to reduce watering in winter, too, as your bromeliads won’t be actively growing at this time.

11. Quesnelia (Quesnelia spp.)

Quesnelia bromeliad pine cone shaped flower — Quesnelia bromeliads have some unique care needs. Not difficult, but unique.

Quesnelia bromeliads hail from Brazil, and there are 22 different species to choose from; however, all of them are epiphytes. Quesnelia all feature pinecone-shaped flowers which range in color from yellow to purple and red. Quesnelia marmorata and Quesnelia testudo are two popular varieties of this fantastic houseplant.

Unlike Tillandsia, Quesnelia can be potted in soil, but make sure that soil is well-draining and loose for optimal growing. These plants should be fertilized once or twice throughout the growing season, and their central cup should be refreshed with water frequently for plant health.

12. Pitcairnia (Pitcairnia spp.)

Pitcairnia bromeliad plant with orange and yellow spiky flowers — The Pitcairnia genus of bromeliad is the only genus to host a plant that is not naturally found in the Americas.

Pitcairnia is the second largest genus of bromeliads (after Tillandsia) and contains 400 different species of plants. Like other bromeliads, these intriguing plants are mostly from Central and South America. However, one variety, Pitcairnia feliciana, is native to West Africa and is the only bromeliad type that is not naturally found in the Americas.

Species like Pitcairnia flammea have very spiky flowers that are finely formed in contrasting colors, like yellow and red. These look particularly striking when paired with other Pitcairnia varieties, like Pitcairnia floresii, which have more columnar, tall blooms.

If you’re familiar with history, the name of the genus may ring a bell. These plants were named after the famous Scottish physician and gardener William Pitcairn.

13. Dyckia (Dyckia spp.)

Dyckia bromeliad plant — Dyckia bromeliads are another type of bromeliad that has low water needs.

Dyckia bromeliads, like Hechtia bromeliads, are naturally found in drier climates and can better withstand periods of drought than other members of this genus. This is partially due to their waxy leaves, which aid with water retention. Some species have highly textural leaves that are edged in large spines to create a very dramatic look.

Because they’re naturally from drier areas, Dyckia bromeliads can be a bit more difficult to keep indoors as you’ll need to take some care to mimic their native environment. To do this, choose a well-draining potting mix that’s suitable for succulents and place your bromeliads in full sun. Dyckia bromeliads should only ever be fertilized with a highly diluted fertilizer – in fact, some plant keepers choose not to fertilize them at all!

14. Neoregelia (Neoregelia spp.)

Red flowered Neoregelia bromeliad with striped leaves — Brightly colored flowers and bright, variegated leaves make Neoregelia bromeliads stand outs.

Always a crowd favorite, Neoregelia bromeliads are some of the most common bromeliads on the market. These gorgeous ornamentals have sweetly colored flowers in pink and red. But these plants really stand out for their bright foliage that is often highly variegated and striped.

Neoregelia grows as epiphytes and isn’t particularly difficult to keep indoors; however, they do need brighter light to make sure their colors stay vivid. Neoregelia can grow to about 1’ in height and over 2’ wide, making them very impressive looking when added to indoor shelves! These low-maintenance plants are also non-toxic to pets.

15. Flaming sword (Vriesea spp.)

Bright orange flowering Flaming Sword bromeliad — Flaming sword bromeliads are easy keepers that grow best in bright light.

Flaming sword bromeliads are known for their fiery, sword-shaped inflorescence that is often flatter than other bromeliad blooms. Some varieties of flaming swords have actually evolved not to have roots at all and instead take in all their water from their central cup!

Flower colors range from yellow to red, and some plants even have two-toned blooms. Even more spectacular are species, like Vriesea splenreit, that have leaves so striped they look like a tiger’s fur.

Flaming swords are generally easy to keep and grow best in bright, indirect light.

16. Portea (Portea spp.)

Purple flowering Portea bromeliad — Portea bromeliads grow tall, to a height of four feet.

There are 9 different species of bromeliads within the Portea genus, and these bromeliads are all known for their brightly toned spikes of foliage and colorful sprays of flowers in blues, pinks, and purples. Native to Brazil, these stunning specimens are slow-growing and low-maintenance, making them a good fit if you’re new to bromeliads. Popular species to look into are Portea petropolitana and Portea alatisepala.

For best results, Portea should be potted up in a rich, well-draining potting mix and fertilized sparingly – about once a year. Mature plants grow to about 4’ in height but should be placed in full sun to keep them growing strong.

17. Sapphire tower (Puya alpestris)

Bright blue flowering Sapphire Tower bromeliad — The Sapphire Tower boasts a striking electric blue blossom.

Native to Chile, the Sapphire tower bromeliad has an otherworldly look with 2” long sapphire-toned blossoms embellished with highly contrasting, bright orange anthers. Flower stalks can reach between 3’ and 4’ high and are sure to be a wonderful conversation starter when added to any home’s décor. Even better, flowers remain vibrant for a month or two for lots of indoor colors!

An easy-going plant, Sapphire tower can tolerate full sun to part shade. It should also be watered sparingly – about once a week in summer and once a month in winter.

18. Hohenbergia stellata (Hohenbergia spp.)

Stellata bromeliad flowering spike — The flowering stalk on this bromeliad can be as tall as 40 inches high.

Stellata means “set with stars” in Latin, which is an apt name for this bromeliad species. This showstopping plant has a large flower stalk that can reach 40” high. At the top, blooms dazzle in spiky bursts of purple and red.

Hohenbergia stellata are non-toxic plants, so they’re a good choice if you have small children or pets in your home. These plants should be provided with regular watering, but the soil should never be allowed to get soggy. They do best with moderate humidity levels, too, so they often don’t need a humidifier to grow happily.

A brief note on watering bromeliads

Bromeliad with a natural water collection reservoir — Most bromeliads have a unique watering feature built right in.

Most bromeliad varieties have a tank or reservoir at the center of their rosette of leaves. In nature, this reservoir collects rainwater, which the plants then redirect to their roots as needed, especially if the soil gets dry.

Not all bromeliad types have a water reservoir, but those that do should be watered in both their reservoir and at their soil line. To do this, thoroughly wet the plant’s soil so that it is moist but not soggy. Then add fresh water to the plant’s reservoir with enough frequency that the reservoir never runs dry.

Tap water is usually okay for watering bromeliads, but distilled, filtered, or rainwater is generally better for filling the plant’s reservoir if you don’t mind the extra fuss. Additionally, the bromeliads’ water reservoirs should be thoroughly flushed out every month to prevent the water from stagnating, developing an overgrowth of bacteria, or causing rot.

Frequently asked questions

A garden display built of potted bromeliads — Most, but not all, varieties of bromeliad are monocarpic and will bloom only once.

How long do bromeliads last?

Most bromeliads are monocarpic plants, meaning that they will flower just once in their lifetimes and then die back. Luckily, after flowering, bromeliads will often produce an offset or “pup,” which can be separated from the parent plant to keep your houseplant growing. Dyckia and a few varieties of Tillandsia are not monocarpic and will bloom more than once.

Do bromeliads like sun or shade?

Most bromeliad species grow best in the bright, indirect sun, as too much bright light can cause leaf burn. If your windows are too bright for bromeliads, try adding a sheer curtain to filter the light.

How often should a bromeliad be watered?

Different bromeliad species have different care requirements, and some bromeliads prefer a drier soil. That said, most bromeliads do well with moderate watering and should be watered once every 1 to 2 weeks during the growing season. Watering should be reduced in winter when plants are not actively growing.

How many types of bromeliads are there?

Currently, there are 80 recognized genera and 3700 different species of bromeliads.

Are all bromeliads epiphytes?

No. While the majority of bromeliads are epiphytes, some bromeliads are classified as ‘terrestrial’ and grow in soil. Dyckia bromeliads are one of the best-known varieties of terrestrial bromeliads.

How long can a bromeliad live?

Since most bromeliads are monocarpic plants, they don’t live very long. Although this can vary from species to species, the average bromeliad will live between 2 to 5 years.

Summary

A bright green bromeliad plant — If it's vibrancy and color you want in a houseplant, it's bromeliads you want to keep.

Bromeliads definitely have that “wow factor” when they come into bloom, so if you’re looking for a vibrant plant to add to your collection, bromeliads are the way to go.

This diverse plant family has something for everyone. Some varieties are low maintenance, while others are compact and still others have truly, out of this world blooms that aren’t like anything else you can find in the world of houseplants.

So, why not pick up a bromeliad or two or even collect a variety of them? They are fun plants to keep and will certainly reward you once they start to flower!

If you liked this article and want to learn more about keeping indoor plants, we have more houseplant content right here.