Native to Brazil, the imperial bromeliad (Alcantarea imperialis) is a rupicolous species (one that grows on rocks), known for its imposing size, which can reach up to 1.5 meters in diameter. Hardy and resilient, it can be grown in gardens or in pots.
Below, Bárbara Sales, a specialist biologist at Instituto Inhotim, in Brumadinho (MG), explains the main care requirements.
Light
The plant can be grown in full sun or partial shade. The greater the sun exposure, the more reddish the leaves tend to become.
Watering
Keep the central tank (rosette) always filled with clean water and water the substrate only when it is slightly dry. In winter, reduce the frequency of watering.
Even though they accumulate water between their leaves, bromeliads do not typically serve as breeding grounds for the dengue mosquito, according to a study by Instituto Oswaldo Cruz.
Fertilizer
This species requires little fertilization. In spring and summer, use diluted foliar fertilizers, such as NPK 10-10-10 at 25% of the recommended dose, every three to four months. Another option is to apply a slow-release fertilizer to the substrate, following the dosage and frequency indicated by the manufacturer.
For organic fertilization, apply a light dose of bokashi every six months.
Tip
The substrate should be light, aerated, and well-drained. A good option is a mixture of pine bark, charcoal, coarse sand, and a small amount of peat or garden soil.
The imperial bromeliad grows slowly but can reach considerable dimensions, which requires careful planning of the space it will occupy. For pot cultivation, opt for a wide, shallow basin-style pot. Since the required substrate is light, a small or lightweight pot may cause the plant to tip over easily in the wind.
After flowering — which may take years to occur — the mother plant dies, but produces lateral offshoots (pups) that can be separated.
