Although Billbergias produce flowers that are shot lived, they are very spectacular. These very hardy plants often have few leaves but they form in such a manner as to produce tall tubular structures that hold deep reservoirs of water. These leaves are often dusted with silver bands, or the plant may take on an over all silver dusting. They like average to warm temperatures (60-85 degrees C, 16-30 degrees F), but some will tolerate temperatures near freezing for short periods. Many grow well as epiphytes on trees.
Source: Lloyd Godman