There are many hybrids and cultivars of this popular bromeliad.
The strap-like leathery leaves grow in a rosette around a central well. Their leaves have been adapted to absorb and store water and nutrients. The water gets trapped in the central well and between the leaves so it is really important to keep top of the plant well watered. The roots are there to hold the plant in place not to draw water from the soil.
The flowers are a violet- blue and grow partically submerged in the water of the central tank. When plant is in flower the base of the leaves around the central well turn an vibrant red. The leaf colour lasts for many months and makes a much more spectacular than the flowers.
Like all Bromeliads, Neregelia carolinae hybrids are monocarpic and the plant dies after flowering. The plants develops 'offsets' or 'pups' whilst the plant is in flower. The pups take nutrition from parent and once they have reached half the parent size they can be removed and replanted.
Neoregelia carolinae like light shade in warm humid conditions. They need very little soil and can be planted in shallow soil around roots or attached to trees.
They are great foliage plants - growing successfully under trees or vertical gardens. They can be used as a short term indoor plant.