Bromeliads on the Bayou Jeanne Garman's Garden

Photos and story

By LMG Calla Victoria

Jeanne Garman a.k.a "The Bromeliad Lady"

Jeanne is one of my favorite people, she is a happy and free spirit. Her lovely garden is whimsical and playful, lush and abundant with her two passions bromeliads and frogs.

Jeanne loves propagating bromeliads and specializes in miniature bromeliads. Bromeliads add texture and drama to any environment. The variety, size, and species are plentiful.

Alcantara blanchetiana Aechema blanchetiana Spanish moss (Tillandsia usneoides)

Most bromeliads like dappled light, but I prefer the large bromeliads like the Aechmea blanchetiana and Alcantara Rubra that thrive in full sun. There are a few bromeliad species that are terrestrial like Cryptanthus, but most species are epiphytic, meaning they do not need soil to grow. I think the most popular and carefree bromeliads are the Tillandsia usneoides (Spanish moss). Most bromeliads are hardy only down to 40 degrees, but the Spanish moss is not bothered by a freeze, they just sway gracefully in the wind. Here in Louisiana, it is against the law to take Spanish moss from the trees. However. after a heavy rain with a lot of wind, you can find it just lying on the ground in City Park.

Cryptanthus a.k.a earth star

I will be posting a video on "How to Mount Bromeliads" in the near future so please check back.

Remember, never get too busy to stop and enjoy the beautiful flowers!