Billbergia nutans

queen’s tears
Prolific small upright bromeliad marks spring with showy arching-hanging flowers of pink, green, violet and yellow. Nice understory plant or potted.
height 8–18in
width 6–24in
tolerates Coast, Cool Summers, Fog, Pots, Neglect
water
needs		 Low – Moderate
water
info		 Bromeliads have evolved their unique shape to funnel rainwater into their centers, and then store it there. When watering it is best to simulate this, by watering from above. When indoors, you can water in the center of the crown and allow the water to overflow down into the lower ‘tanks’ and then the roots without getting the area around your plant wet.

This species has shown surprising drought tolerance; plants are seen surviving in neglected coastal gardens where water is scarce.
hardy
to		 24F
exposure Full Shade – Full Sun
indoor
outdoor		 In or Out
drainage In Ground: Cactus Mix, In Pots: Cactus Mix, Orchid Bark, Tolerates Sandy Soil, 1/2 Sand 1/2 Peat Moss
fertilizing Acid 1/2 Strength, Low Needs
origin S. Brazil, Paraguay, Argentina, Uruguay
california
native		 No
sunset
zones		 14–H1

Sunset Zones Map

Growing Notes

Plants expand readily into almost grassy clumps by basal sprouts.
This bromeliad will grow in light soil or as an epiphyte in a bark mix or even mounted where regularly irrigated.
In the fog belt, plants will tolerate full sun; otherwise give them a bit of shade for best appearance. Or, try them under a tree where fog drip contributes moisture.

Special Interest

Bring into a prominent place during its brief spring bloom. Potted plants look good elevated to feature the pendulous flowers.

More Info

The flowering period of this bromeliad is short compared to other showy bromeliads like Aechmea, Vriesea, and Neoregelia. It is one of the easiest and most reliable bromeliads for California gardens.