Neoregelia ‘Tunisia’ (N. punctatissima rubra x N. ‘Hannibal Lector’)

Neoregelia 'Tunisia'. This exceptional hybrid was introduced by Chester Skotak, one of the most renowned names in bromeliad breeding, and is a cross of Neoregelia punctatissima rubra and Neoregelia 'Hannibal Lector'. Both parents are known for their heavily banded foliage, and 'Tunisia' inherits the best of both.

'Tunisia' forms a compact, dense rosette of stiff, arching leaves. The foliage is a glossy olive-green, heavily overlaid with a reddish-brown veneer and marked with broken cross-bands and spots on both leaf surfaces, creating a visually intricate, textured pattern. The leaves are also heavily armed with stout spines, adding a rugged, architectural quality to the plant. When grown in strong filtered light, the entire rosette can transform to a stunning deep red, making it a true chameleon in the collection.

This is a small to medium-sized Neoregelia, typically reaching 8 to 12 inches (20–30 cm) across at maturity. It is a slower grower than many other Neoregelias, which makes it an excellent choice for terrariums and smaller displays where it won't quickly outgrow its space. It also holds more water in its central cup than many smaller minis, making it a more forgiving plant for beginners.