Alcantarea imperialis 'Rubra'
Giant Bromeliad
The Alcantarea imperialis 'Rubra', or Rubra Giant Bromeliad, is a stunning cultivar of the Giant Bromeliad, featuring deep red to burgundy-tinted foliage that intensifies in full sun. Native to Brazil, this architectural plant grows up to 1.5 metres tall and wide, forming a massive rosette of broad, strappy leaves. In maturity, it produces an impressive flower spike reaching up to 3 metres tall, crowned with small, tubular blooms.
Perfect for creating bold focal points, this low-maintenance bromeliad thrives in tropical and subtropical landscapes, rockeries, or large containers.
Specifications
- Height1.5 metres (up to 3 metres with flower spike)
- Width1.5 metres
- Native toBrazil
- FoliageDeep red to burgundy, broad strappy leaves; evergreen
- Growth rateSlow
Conditions
- SoilPrefers well-drained, sandy or loamy soils enriched with organic matter
- LightFull sun to partial shade; richer colour develops in brighter light
- WaterModerate; water into the central tank and keep soil lightly moist
- ClimateThrives in tropical, subtropical, and warm temperate regions
Additional Features
- FlowersTowering flower spike with tubular blooms; blooms after several years
- FormLarge, symmetrical rosette with striking burgundy foliage
- UsesIdeal for feature planting, rockeries, large containers, or tropical gardens
- SpacingPlant 1.5 to 2 metres apart for standout displays
- Low MaintenanceMinimal care required; remove spent leaves as needed
- Pest ResistanceGenerally pest-free; monitor for scale or mealybugs
- Drought ToleranceTolerates dry periods once established; suitable for low-water gardens
- Wind ToleranceSturdy leaves withstand windy and coastal conditions
- Seasonal AppealEvergreen foliage provides year-round colour and structure
- VersatilityComplements modern, tropical, and arid garden styles
The Rubra Giant Bromeliad is a bold and captivating plant, perfect for adding dramatic colour and texture to gardens and landscapes with minimal effort.