Lutheria splendens aka Flaming Sword

Lutheria splendens is an evergreen perennial called flaming sword. It belongs to the pineapple family, Bromeliaceae. Older sources name it Vriesea splendens. Its home range runs from eastern Colombia to Trinidad and Tobago. It also grows in Venezuela, Guyana, Suriname, and French Guiana. In wet, shaded forests, it grows near tree bases. It also lives on branches as an epiphyte.

Garden plants reach about 2–3 feet (0.6–0.9 m) tall. RHS gives an upper height of 3.3 feet (1 m). They spread about 1.5–2 feet (0.46–0.61 m) wide. RHS lists a smaller spread, up to 1.6 feet (0.5 m). Growth is slow, with leaves forming an arching rosette. This rosette makes a central cup that holds water. The soft, smooth leaves have plain edges and no hairs. They range from 0.7–2 feet (0.2–0.6 m) long. Their grey-green or purple tones carry dark bands. These bands range from green to reddish brown.

An upright flower spike rises from the rosette's centre. It can reach 1.5 feet (0.46 m) long. Red bracts overlap along the spike and surround yellow, tubular flowers. The bracts give the plant much of its bright colour. NC State lists summer as the flowering season. The parent rosette dies after it flowers and makes offsets. These young plants can take three to five years to bloom. Growers can raise plants from seed, though offsets offer greater reliability.

Give this plant bright, indirect light or some shade. It grows best with high humidity and warmth. NC State gives a range of 60–80°F (16–27°C). Use a potting mix that drains well, such as orchid mix. Acidic loam also suits it. Water through the central cup and keep the mix moist. Let the upper half of the mix dry between waterings. RHS advises daily misting during growth and less moisture in winter. Its UK rating, H1A, calls for year-round growing under glass. NC State lists USDA zones 10–12.

Grow flaming sword in containers or mount it on bark. Its striped leaves and bright spikes suit indoor displays. It needs no pruning, and sources describe its upkeep as low. Scale insects and mealybugs can attack it. Leaf spots and bacterial soft rot can also occur. NC State records medicinal use but gives no details. The supplied evidence does not establish edibility or toxicity.