King of Bromeliads

V. splendens should have their soil kept moderately damp to the touch. Too much or too little water can lead to root rot. When it comes to water, good drainage is key. Ensure that your potting-soil of choice has a good drainage system, or risk too much water being retained. This species also requires high humidity levels of 60-80%. Mist your plant twice a week to keep its foliage happy.

As with most bromeliads, V. splendens prefers bright indirect light. Direct sun should be avoided as it will scorch the foliage. Keep away from dark spaces, as insufficient light will cause stunted growth, any yellowing of the leaves, and long internodes. This species also thrive in pereskia-like habitats – areas with intermittent shade and direct sunlight, much like their native homes in the tropical rainforest.

V. splenedens prefers temperatures between 75-80°F (24 - 27°C) during the day and between 65-72°F (18 - 22°C) at night. If temperatures dip much below this range it will start to suffer as a result, so make sure to keep your V. splendens in a warm and humid place.

V. splendens is used to high humidity levels. Place them in an area with a relative humidity of at least 60 to 80%, preferably higher, to keep them looking their best. This can be accomplished by misting your plant frequently, as well as by grouping plants together in order to increase air humidity. Additionally, placing your pot on top of a tray filled with stones and water can raise the humidity around your plant.

When it comes to selecting a soil type for Vriesea splendens, opt for a fast-drainage soil. A 50/50 combination of sphagnum moss and loose, organic-based potting soil is ideal since it allows the roots to keep healthy, provides good drainage, and holds onto water. If your potting mix is too coarse or sandy, you run the risk of the soil drying out too quickly, making it difficult to maintain the ideal moisture levels for the plant.

V. splendens should be fertilized sparingly, and using a liquid-based fertilizer, as their roots do not do well if they are over-fertilized. Light fertilization with a balanced solution, such as 10-10-10 or 20-20-20, should be done every other week from late spring to early fall. Do not fertilize in winter, as the plant will be spending its time in dormancy.

As with most houseplants, V. splendens can fall prey to a variety of pests ranging from mealybugs and scale to aphids and thrips. The most effective way to combat any pest issue is to spot treat the affected areas with a Q-tip dipped in rubbing alcohol. Additionally, insecticidal soap sprays will work against many of these pests as well. Once the pests have been removed, make sure to spray your plant with a fine mist of neem oil, or discard and re-pot if you feel it necessary.

Vriesea splendens should be re-potted approximately once every 5 years. At the time of re-potting, make sure to be mindful of the potting soil used - ideally, a 2:1 combination of sphagnum moss and soil - to ensure the proper drainage. Be sure to avoid over-packing the soil firmly down, and make sure that the plant is comfortably sitting in the soil at a depth that is similar to how it was organized.

V. splendens does not require much pruning beyond the occasional removal of any dead or dying leaves. Beyond that, just trim very cautiously around the growing tips of the foliage to remove any wilted or damaged leaves. This can help promote a more compact growth habit.

This species does not require mulching around its base. It is recommended to use a top dressing of a fine pebble or aquarium gravel to help conserve the soil’s moisture.

V. splendens can be propagated either by division or by offsets. When dividing your plant, first prepare the soil – a 2:1 combination of sphagnum moss and soil – making sure that it is moistened to about a three-finger depth. Cut the mother plant in half carefully with a sterilized sharp knife, making sure to have at least two good and healthy looking ‘pups’ on each of the separation points. Pot the halves in the prepared soil mix and water lightly. It might take a few months for your new plants to recover and start growing again.

V. splendens is a very sturdy plant and does not usually require any sort of support or stakes as it matures. However, if the foliage becomes severely damaged or bent due to environmental pressure, consider providing a stake or support to help keep the rosette shape.

V. splendens does not require a distinct rest period, but due to its seasonal flowering, the winter months are the best to give them a bit of a break. During this period, the plant should be kept slightly warmer than usual and watered more infrequently.

No, V. splendens is not toxic to any of the common household pets, making it a great option for anyone looking to accessorize their home with this unique species.