Neoregelia ‘Mona Lisa’
 
Common Names Mona Lisa Bromeliad, Blushing Rosette Neoregelia
 
Zones 10A–11
 
A medium-sized hybrid with painterly coloration, Neoregelia ‘Mona Lisa’ features creamy margins, deep red central blush, and subtle green banding that shifts with light exposure. Its symmetrical rosette and vivid contrast make it ideal for tabletop containers, vivariums, and shaded tropical beds. This cultivar is especially prized for its ability to hold color year-round in bright filtered light.
 
Key Features
Growth Habit: Tight rosette; solitary or slow clumper; terrestrial or epiphytic
Size: 12–16 in (30–41 cm) wide; 6–10 in (15–25 cm) tall
Leaves: Creamy-white margins with green base and red central blush; smooth edges with fine spines
Flowers: Small, lavender-white; emerge from central tank during bloom phase
Fruit: Inconspicuous; not ornamental
Ecology: Tank-forming; supports frogs and microfauna; suitable for high-humidity environments
 
Growing Conditions
Light: Bright filtered light; color intensifies with exposure
Watering: Keep central cup filled with clean water; flush weekly; mist foliage in dry conditions
Soil: Well-draining mix with bark, perlite, and sphagnum; suitable for mounting or containers
Temperature: 65–85°F (18–29°C); protect from frost
Humidity: Moderate to high (50–90%)
Propagation: By offsets (“pups”) after flowering; detach when ½ to ¾ parent size
Tolerance: Humidity tolerant; sensitive to copper-based fungicides and poor ventilation
 
Landscape Use Perfect for shaded beds, interiorscapes, and vivarium accents. Pairs well with Neoregelia ‘Picasso’, Cryptanthus ‘Ruby’, and Tillandsia ionantha.