Brazilian Vase Plant
(Billbergia morelii)
Brazilian Vase Plant (Billbergia morelii)
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Estimated Native Range
Summary
Billbergia morelii, commonly known as the Brazilian vase plant, is an evergreen perennial herb native to the Atlantic Forest biome of Eastern Brazil, particularly thriving in humid, shaded areas. It typically reaches a height of 2 feet (0.6 meters) and a width of 1 foot (0.3 meters). This bromeliad has a rosette-forming habit with arching, strap-like leaves that create a vase-like structure, which collects water and organic debris to nourish the plant. The inflorescence is a striking combination of pink bracts, red sepals, and green petals, which appear in the spring and are quite showy, attracting pollinators such as hummingbirds.
Billbergia morelii is valued for its exotic and colorful appearance, making it a popular choice for tropical and subtropical gardens, greenhouses, and as an indoor plant. It is often used in container plantings or as an accent in shaded garden areas. In cultivation, it requires part shade to mimic its native understory conditions, consistent moisture without waterlogging, and well-draining soil. It is relatively low maintenance but benefits from regular misting to maintain humidity. Overwatering should be avoided to prevent root rot. While it is not known for serious pest or disease issues, mealybugs and scale insects can sometimes be a problem. This plant is not typically invasive when grown outside its native range due to its specific habitat requirements.CC BY-SA 4.0
Billbergia morelii is valued for its exotic and colorful appearance, making it a popular choice for tropical and subtropical gardens, greenhouses, and as an indoor plant. It is often used in container plantings or as an accent in shaded garden areas. In cultivation, it requires part shade to mimic its native understory conditions, consistent moisture without waterlogging, and well-draining soil. It is relatively low maintenance but benefits from regular misting to maintain humidity. Overwatering should be avoided to prevent root rot. While it is not known for serious pest or disease issues, mealybugs and scale insects can sometimes be a problem. This plant is not typically invasive when grown outside its native range due to its specific habitat requirements.CC BY-SA 4.0
Plant Description
- Plant Type: Herb
- Height: 0.6-2 feet
- Width: 0.3-1 feet
- Growth Rate: Moderate
- Flower Color: Pink, Red, Green
- Flowering Season: Spring
- Leaf Retention: Evergreen
Growth Requirements
- Sun: Part Shade
- Water: Medium
- Drainage: Medium
Common Uses
Bird Garden, Hummingbird Garden, Low Maintenance, Potted Plant, Rock Garden, Showy Flowers
Natural Habitat
Native to the Atlantic Forest biome of Eastern Brazil, particularly in humid, shaded areas
Other Names
Common Names:
Scientific Names: , Billbergia morelii, Billbergia wetherellii, Billbergia glymiana, Billbergia pulcherrima,
GBIF Accepted Name: Billbergia morelii Brongn.