Flaming Torch Billbergia

Flaming Torch is a tropical bromeliad with glossy, strap-shaped leaves arranged in a water-holding rosette. Its upright flower cluster brings coral-red color, sometimes with orange and blue florets. ## Flowers and placement Port St. Lucie Botanical Gardens identifies the plant as Billbergia pyramidalis and gives a mature height of 12–18 inches, spread of 18–24 inches, and zones 9b–11 ([Port St. Lucie Botanical Gardens](https://www.pslbg.org/flaming-torch/)). The University of North Florida Botanical Garden describes bright pink-to-red flower spikes with blue flowers and leaves about 12 inches tall ([UNF Botanical Garden](https://www.unf.edu/botanical-garden/plants/billbergia-pyramidalis.html)). It can grow in a pot, on a tree, or in a protected shaded bed. ## Light, water, and soil Part shade to shade helps prevent leaf scorching. The plant absorbs water through its central cup, so keep clean water there and flush it occasionally. Although epiphytic in nature, it can also grow in a well-drained or soilless medium. ## Seasonal interest The colorful flower spike rises above the rosette for a short display. After flowering, the original rosette gradually declines while producing offsets around its base. ## Maintenance Protect it from frost and avoid overfertilizing. Leave offsets attached to build a colony or separate them once large enough to handle. Remove spent flower stalks and flush the central cup regularly.