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bright indirect light (3-6 feet from a south or west window, or right next to an east window. Under a grow light, 6-10 inches away works well) to partial sun. Tolerates a wide range of light levels - from shade to full sun (6 or more hours of sun hitting the leaves per day. South-facing window, no obstructions. Under grow lights, keep them 4-8 inches away for 12-14 hours) - though very bright light deepens the bronze coloration. Avoid prolonged harsh direct sun (right in the window where sun actually hits the leaves. A strong grow light 4-6 inches away can substitute), which can scorch leaves.Light
Keep the central cup filled with room-temperature rainwater or distilled water; flush monthly and refill with fresh water. Water the soil just enough to keep roots barely moist. Tap water with chlorine or fluoride can cause tip burn.Water
Moderate to high humidity (60-80%. Group your plants together, set them on a pebble tray with water, or run a humidifier nearby) (50%+) preferred. Can tolerate drier indoor conditions better than many tropical plants, but brown tips indicate the air is too dry.Humidity
Prefers 68-80°F (20-26°C). Can tolerate brief exposure down to 26°F (-3°C) but should be protected from sustained frost. USDA zones 10a-11b outdoors.Temperature
easyDifficulty

Zebra Plant

Billbergia zebrina

Easy

Billbergia zebrina is the bold one in the bromeliad lineup, forming tall tubular rosettes of arching lanceolate leaves up to 24 inches long, splashed with distinctive silvery-white horizontal bands that immediately explain the 'zebra' name. In strong light those leaves take on a handsome bronze tone, and when it blooms, a pendulous inflorescence appears with rose-pink bracts and tubular flowers featuring blue petals tipped white. It functions as a tank bromeliad in the wild, its central cup holding water and supporting entire micro-ecosystems in the forest canopy.

Care Guide

How to grow Zebra Plant

Light

bright indirect light (3-6 feet

Water

Keep the central cup filled

Humidity

60-80%

Temperature

68-80°F

Soil

Well-draining, slightly acidic bromeliad mix;

Propagation

Easily propagated by separating basal

Common Problems

Stagnant water in the central

Did You Know

Fun Facts

The species was first described botanically in 1827, and botanist John Lindley transferred it to the genus Billbergia (named after Swedish naturalist Gustav Johan Billberg) in the same year — making it one of the earlier Billbergia species to be formally classified.

Pet Safety

Pet safe

Non-toxic to cats, dogs, and humans. Bromeliads contain no known toxic alkaloids. The serrated leaf edges can cause minor physical scratches if handled carelessly.

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