Water
Water thoroughly when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot. Allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings. In winter, reduce watering frequency.
Billbergia macrocalyx is a striking bromeliad with tubular, recurved leaves forming a rosette. It produces a spectacular inflorescence with showy bracts and flowers.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Bright, Indirect
75% intensity
Prefers bright, filtered light. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves.
Moderate
50% intensity
Keep the central cup partially filled with water, and water the soil when the top layer feels dry.
Well-draining, epiphytic mix
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Thrives in temperatures between 18-24°C. Protect from frost and avoid sudden temperature drops.
Low
25% intensity
Feed sparingly during the growing season with a balanced liquid fertilizer.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water thoroughly when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot. Allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings. In winter, reduce watering frequency.
Prune away dead, damaged, or discolored leaves as needed to maintain a tidy appearance. Remove spent flower stalks after blooming.
Bromeliads typically produce pups, which can be removed once they reach a significant size.
Propagate Billbergia macrocalyx using offsets (pups) that grow from the base of the mother plant. Gently separate the pups when they are about one-third the size of the parent and pot them in their own well-draining mix.
Repot every 2-3 years or when the plant becomes pot-bound. Use a well-draining potting mix, such as a blend for bromeliads or orchids. Repotting is best done in spring.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Billbergia Macrocalyx (Billbergia macrocalyx)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Poales |
| Family | Bromeliaceae |
| Genus | Billbergia |
| Species | Billbergia macrocalyx |
Similar in genus Billbergia
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
