Evita Vriesea Bromeliad: Overview

The Evita Vriesea Bromeliad (Vriesea splendens ‘Evita’), commonly known as the Flaming Sword Plant, is a striking indoor plant prized for its vivid colors and unique shape. It features long, arching green leaves with faint horizontal banding and a tall, sword-like flower spike in bright red or orange. The plant typically grows up to 8-12 inches tall and wide, making it an ideal centerpiece for indoor spaces.

Vriesea Evita belongs to the Bromeliaceae family and is native to the tropical rainforests of South America, where it thrives in warm, humid environments. Hardy in USDA zones 10-12, this plant is primarily grown indoors due to its sensitivity to cooler climates. It prefers indirect or filtered light, as direct sunlight can damage its leaves.

The Vriesea Splenens is easy to care for and has a long lifespan if properly maintained. Symbolically, Bromeliads are associated with resilience and creativity, as they are able to thrive in harsh environments in the wild. It is also non-toxic to pets, making it a safe addition in homes with cats or dogs.

If you’re looking for more Bromeliads, consider the Guzmania or Vriesea, both of which are available at Lively Root.   

Bromeliads: Benefits

• Purifies the air, improving indoor air quality

• Adds aesthetic appeal with a tropical vibe

• Easy-care plant, ideal for beginners and busy plant owners

• Non-toxic to pets, making it safe for homes with cats and dogs

• Gorgeous flowering plant, perfect for interior decoration

• Symbolizes resilience and creativity, adding a meaningful touch to any space

Evita Vriesea Splendens: Care Guide

The Evita Vriesea Splendens is a low-maintenance bromeliad that’s perfect for both beginners and experienced plant enthusiasts. This tropical beauty will thrive indoors with minimal care in the right conditions.

Watering & Humidity

Water the plant by filling its central cup (or “tank”) rather than the soil, as this mimics its natural growth habit. Change the water in the cup weekly to prevent stagnation. It prefers high humidity, so misting the leaves regularly or placing the plant on a humidity tray can help keep it happy.

Light & Temperature

The Evita Flaming Sword Plant enjoys bright, indirect light but can tolerate lower light conditions. Avoid direct sunlight, which may burn the leaves. The ideal temperature range for this plant is 64–79°F, and it should be protected from cold drafts and temperatures below 50°F.

Soil & Repotting

Use a well-draining, airy potting mix, such as one designed for orchids or bromeliads. Repotting is generally unnecessary, as Bromeliads like the Vriesea have shallow roots and do well in small containers. Repot only if the plant becomes too top-heavy or to refresh the soil.

Feeding & Pruning

Feed the plant with a diluted liquid fertilizer applied directly into the cup every 1–2 months during the growing season. Pruning is minimal; simply remove dead or yellowing leaves. After the flowering period, the main plant will slowly die, but pups (offsets) will grow at its base.

Propagation, Cleaning & Common Issues

Propagate your  Bromeliad by separating their pups when they are about one-third the size of the mother plant. Clean the leaves regularly with a damp cloth to remove dust and encourage healthy growth. Common issues include leaf browning (from too much sunlight or stagnant water in the cup) and root rot (from overwatering the soil).

Vriesea Evita: Placement, Companion & Alternative Plants

The Vriesea Evita, with its striking tropical look and pet-friendly nature, is an adaptable plant perfect for a variety of indoor settings. Its low-maintenance care makes it a great choice for many types of plant enthusiasts. 

Best Locations & Uses

• Non-toxic to cats and dogs, making it a safe choice for animal lovers.
• Easy to care for, requiring minimal attention.
• It thrives in indirect light and adds a vibrant, tropical touch.
• In warmer climates, it can thrive on shaded porches with ample humidity.
• Its unique appearance and easy care make it a lovely gift for any occasion.  

Companion Plants

Vriesea Evita pairs beautifully with other tropical plants that thrive in similar environments. Here are three ideal companion plants to choose from:

• Bromeliad Neoregelia (Neoregelia Bromeliad): Another bromeliad, Neoregelia offers bright colors and thrives in the same high-humidity conditions as Vriesea Evita.
• Peace Lily Plant (Spathiphyllum): Known for its air-purifying qualities, the Peace Lily complements your Evita Vriesea Bromeliad with its similar care needs and elegant appearance.
• Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata): With its feathery fronds, the Boston Fern adds texture and does well in the same humid, warm environments.

Alternative Plants

If you're looking for alternatives to Vriesea Evita, here are three excellent options available on Lively Root:

• Peacock Plant (Calathea roseopicta): Similar in care level and appearance, the Peacock Plant is a non-toxic plant with striking foliage that elevates indoor spaces.
• Philodendron Ginny (Rhaphidophora tetrasperma 'Ginny'): The Philodendron Ginny is an easy-care plant that is great for air purification in compact spaces.
• Ponytail Palm Tree (Beaucarnea recurvata): Known for its unique look and low-water requirements, the Ponytail Palm is perfect for those seeking a low-maintenance, pet-safe plant option.

Order Your Evita Vriesea Bromeliad From Lively Root Today

Bring vibrant colors and tropical beauty to your home by ordering Evita Vriesea Bromeliad from Lively Root today!