Guzmania 'Calypso' is a vibrant and popular bromeliad prized for its colorful, long-lasting bracts (modified leaves) and striking foliage. This cultivar of Guzmania typically features a rosette of long, strappy leaves, often with a deep green color, and produces a central flower spike with bright red or orange bracts that surround the true flowers. The bracts can last for several months, providing a long-lasting display of color. It belongs to the Bromeliaceae family.
The genus name Guzmania honors Anastasio Guzman, a Spanish naturalist. 'Calypso' is a cultivar name, possibly referring to the vibrant and captivating nature of the plant, reminiscent of the sea nymph Calypso in Greek mythology.
Light: Guzmania 'Calypso' thrives in bright, indirect light. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves, while insufficient light may inhibit flowering or result in less vibrant bract colors. A spot near a window with filtered light, or a room with ample ambient light, is ideal.
Water: Bromeliads have a central "cup" or "tank" formed by their leaves. Keep this central cup filled with water, using distilled water, rainwater, or filtered water. Flush the cup with fresh water every 1-2 weeks to prevent stagnation. Also, water the potting mix when it feels dry to the touch, but avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot.
Potting mix: A well-draining, slightly acidic potting mix is essential. A blend of peat moss, perlite, and orchid bark is a good choice.
Fertilising: Guzmania 'Calypso' is not a heavy feeder. You can fertilize it occasionally during the growing season (spring and summer) with a diluted bromeliad or orchid fertilizer.
Temperature: Guzmania 'Calypso' prefers warm temperatures, ideally between 18-27°C (65-80°F). It is not frost-tolerant and should be protected from cold temperatures. Avoid placing it near draughts or heating/cooling vents.
Humidity: This bromeliad appreciates moderate to high humidity. Using a humidifier or placing the plant on a pebble tray filled with water can be beneficial, especially in drier environments.
Flowering: Guzmania 'Calypso' typically blooms once in its lifetime. The colorful bracts can last for several months, after which the plant will gradually decline. However, it will often produce offsets or "pups" at the base, which can be separated and grown into new plants.
Toxicity: Guzmania 'Calypso' is not known to be toxic to humans or pets.