Neoregelia ‘Paprika’
 
Common Names Paprika Bromeliad, Spotted Fire Neoregelia
 
Zones 10A–11
 
A fiery hybrid with bold coloration and speckled texture, Neoregelia ‘Paprika’ features deep red leaves flecked with bright yellow spots and occasional banding. This medium-sized cultivar thrives in bright filtered light, where its reddish-orange blush intensifies and the speckling becomes more vivid. Its compact form and dramatic palette make it ideal for containers, vivariums, and tropical beds.
 
Key Features
Growth Habit: Tight rosette; solitary or slow clumper; terrestrial or epiphytic
Size: 12–14 in (30–36 cm) wide; 6–8 in (15–20 cm) tall
Leaves: Dark red with bright yellow speckles; occasional banding; glossy; smooth margins 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 and spotting intensify 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: Heat and humidity tolerant; sensitive to poor ventilation and copper-based fungicides
 
Landscape Use Perfect for tropical beds, interiorscapes, and vivarium accents. Pairs well with Neoregelia ‘Malbec’, Cryptanthus ‘Ruby’, and Tillandsia stricta.