Guzmania Bromeliad Pups: What They Are and How to Perpetuate the Plant

Life Cycle

Bromeliads bloom once, then the mother slowly dies (up to a year). Before dying, she produces "pups"—side shoots at the base.

Pup Harvest

1. Wait until pup has same form as mother (smaller).
2. Cut between pup and mother, including any roots.
3. Pot in bromeliad mix (orchid bark, peat, perlite).
4. Keep central cup filled with water.

Clarification

The red "flower" is actually colorful bracts; true flowers are small and short-lived. The green leaves are the mother plant. Pups are the future.