Guzmania lingulata is one of the most popular species of Guzmania. Its common name is the scarlet star. The scarlet star has long, flat, glossy green leaves with smooth margins. The leaves come together to form a star shape in the middle. The flower on this plant is actually a grouping of modified leaves, called bracts. Guzmania lingulata is most famous for its brilliant pink or red flower bracts but can also be found in shades of yellow and orange depending on the variety. The true flowers are tiny white and do not rise above the colorful bracts. The blooms can last 2-4 months. Guzmania lingulata is an ideal indoor or office plant. They survive well in low light conditions and tolerant of artificial light. They cannot, be exposed to intense direct sunlight. The plant can grow as tall as two feet and as wide as two feet.

Most Guzmania are epiphytic meaning they use their roots to attach to a host plant such as a tree rather than grow in the ground. Epiphytes are not parasitic and do not cause any damage to their host. Guzmania can be either mounted on a substrate or planted in a pot. Because Guzmania roots act primarily as an anchor rather than a source for water and nutrients.

Guzmania take in water through their central tank and leaves in addition to their roots. A cup toward the base of the plant. Never put water in the bracts or flowering portion of the plant. It will shorten the life of the inflorescence. Make sure to flush the cup regularly to avoid disease and the build up of minerals found in the water. 

Because Guzmania are native to tropical areas, they prefer warmer temperatures and humidity. A healthy plant will produce pups before it dies. Pups can be removed from the plant and transplanted to their own pot or they can be allowed to grow in clumps attached to the mother plant. 

The Guzmania does not suffer from many pests especially when grown indoors.

There are many species of Guzmania besides lingulata There are 135 different species and 348 cultivars listed in the Florida Council of Bromeliad Societies’ Bromeliad Photo Index. Guzmania come in many shapes, sizes, and colors.