Billbergia

(Billbergia distachia)

Billbergia (Billbergia distachia)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Billbergia distachia, commonly known as Billbergia, is an evergreen perennial herb native to the Atlantic Forest biome in Southern Brazil, where it thrives in the canopy of moist, subtropical forests. It typically grows to a height of 2-5 feet and a width of 1-3 feet. This bromeliad has a striking appearance with arching, strap-like leaves that form a funnel-shaped rosette. The inflorescences are showy with green flowers, often edged in pink or violet, appearing in the winter and spring. The flowers are followed by decorative, inedible fruit.

Billbergia distachia is valued for its exotic, tropical look and its adaptability to a range of light conditions, making it suitable for indoor cultivation or shaded outdoor areas in warm climates. It is often used in container plantings, hanging baskets, and as an accent in shaded garden beds. This plant prefers consistently moist, well-draining soil and can tolerate short periods of drought once established. It is relatively low maintenance but benefits from regular watering and the occasional application of a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer during the growing season. While generally pest-free, it can be susceptible to scale insects and mealybugs.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 2-5 feet
  • Width: 1-3 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Green, Pink
  • Flowering Season: Winter, Spring
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade, Full Shade
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Medium

Common Uses

Bird Garden, Low Maintenance

Natural Habitat

Native to the canopy of moist, subtropical forests within the Atlantic Forest biome in Southern Brazil

Other Names

Common Names:

Scientific Names: , Billbergia distachia, Billbergia distachia var. distachia, Billbergia distachya var. straussiana, Billbergia bakeri, Billbergia distachya var. concolor, Billbergia distachya var. maculata, Billbergia ensifolia, Billbergia regeliana, Billbergia distacaia

GBIF Accepted Name: Billbergia distachia (Vell.) Mez