Alcantarea ‘Julietta’ (P.)
 
Common Names Julietta Bromeliad, Purple Alcantarea
 
Zones 10B–11
 
A bold hybrid believed to originate from Hawaii, Alcantarea ‘Julietta’ combines the grandeur of Alcantarea imperialis with the rich coloration of A. vinicolor. Its broad, plum-colored leaves are dusted with silver frosting, deepening in hue as the plant matures. With a spread of up to 5 feet and a towering inflorescence, ‘Julietta’ brings sculptural drama to both landscape and interiorscape settings2.
 
Key Features
Growth Habit: Massive upright rosette; solitary; terrestrial
Size: 3–4 ft (91–122 cm) tall; 4–5 ft (122–152 cm) wide; inflorescence up to 6–7 ft (183–213 cm) tall
Leaves: Glossy plum to dark purple with silver frosting; leathery; entire margins
Flowers: Red spike with cream-colored tubular flowers; blooms after several years
Fruit: Inconspicuous; retained in inflorescence
Ecology: Tank supports amphibians and aquatic insects; attracts hummingbirds and pollinators
 
Growing Conditions
Light: Bright filtered light to full sun; best color in strong light
Watering: Occasional; keep tank filled and flush regularly
Soil: Free-draining, rocky or sandy mix; roots absorb minimal water
Temperature: Protect below 40°F (4.4°C); not frost-tolerant
Humidity: High humidity preferred
Propagation: By offsets (“pups”) after flowering; asexual propagation prohibited under patent
Tolerance: Heat, drought; low salt tolerance
 
Landscape Use Ideal for large-format tropical designs, specimen containers, and shaded patios. Pairs well with Alcantarea ‘Silver Plum’, Vriesea gigantea, and Neoregelia ‘Galaxy’.