Exposure & location

The Vriesea ‘Elan’ thrives perfectly in indirect light or partial shade. It appreciates good brightness without direct sun, and particularly enjoys naturally humid rooms such as the bathroom or kitchen.

• Exposure: soft natural light, without direct rays.
• Ideal: east or north-facing windowsill, bright shelf or clear desk.
• Temperature: 18–26 °C, stable and without cold drafts.
• Substrate: light and draining potting soil, enriched with organic matter.

Verdeia tip: regularly spray non-limestone water on the foliage and into the center of the rosette to provide an ideal tropical atmosphere.

Watering & care

• Watering: moderate: keep the soil slightly moist without excess.
• Rosette: pour a little water directly into the center, to be renewed weekly.
• Fertilizer: a monthly supply of diluted liquid fertilizer during the growing season.
• Drainage: ensure the pot is well-drilled to avoid stagnant water.
• Care: remove faded bracts and keep offsets for repotting.

Water little but regularly: excess water is more harmful than a slight neglect.

Decor ideas & plant combinations

With its flamboyant bracts and elegant posture, the Vriesea ‘Elan’ attracts light and good cheer. It is the perfect plant to brighten up a shelf, desk, or a somewhat plain living corner.

• To combine with: Calathea, Guzmania or Maranta for a tropical and colorful atmosphere.
• Ideal pot: light ceramic, beige stoneware or decorative pot in natural fiber.
• Ambiance: perfect for a bohemian interior or a bright urban mini-jungle.

Place it high so that its colorful bracts are well highlighted in the light.

Verdeia tips

• Offer it soft light, without direct sun.
• Water the center of the rosette with non-limestone water.
• Regularly mist to maintain pleasant humidity.
• Avoid excess fertilizer: once a month is enough.
• After flowering, keep the offsets to propagate the plant.

Technical characteristics

• Botanical name: Vriesea ‘Elan’
• Common name: Vriesea / Flamingo plant
• Origin: Central and South America
• Pot size: Ø12 cm
• Approximate height: 55 cm
• Adult size: up to 60 cm
• Exposure: indirect light / partial shade
• Watering: moderate
• Care: easy
• Toxicity to animals: non-toxic
• Decorative style: Urban jungle / Bohemian / Tropical

Each plant is unique: photos show an example of its appearance. The density, shape, and shades of the foliage naturally evolve according to light and throughout the seasons.