Billbergia nutans, the plant of shared friendship

Billbergia nutans, commonly known as Leaning Billbergia or "Queen's Tears", is an epiphytic bromeliad native to South America. This tropical plant, named after Swedish botanist Gustaf Billberg, can be grown both indoors and outdoors, depending on the climate.

Billbergia nutans is a perennial plant that develops a bushy habit and sprouts at its base. It measures between 40 and 60 centimetres in height, with a spread of 30 to 50 centimetres.

The plant's evergreen foliage is made up of long, narrow, leathery, arching leaves that form a rosette. This practical rosette acts as a water reservoir, replenished by rainfall or your watering can. Resembling olive-green ribbons, the leaf blades have smooth or serrated margins.

Whereas billbergia pyramidalis has flowers grouped in spikes, Billbergia nutans has tubular flowers grouped in drooping clusters. These bright blue-green flowers are supported by red bracts. This leaning flowering stem (Latin: nutans) often produces tear-like droplets of nectar.

After flowering, the plant produces small green berries that turn red when ripe.

While its berries are not edible, the leaning billbergia is not poisonous. It's a safe choice for homes with pets.

In English-speaking countries, Billbergia nutans is often referred to as the "FriendshipPlant". It multiplies and spreads so easily that it has become a symbol of camaraderie shared among friends!