Location
Bromeliad Island Garden
Aechmea Hybrid
- Common name: Aechmea Hybrid
- Scientific name: Aechmea spp.
- Family name: Bromeliaceae
- Origin: Tropical America's
- Height: 1 to 3 ft
- Width: 1 to 3 ft
- Growth: Slow
- Zone: USDA Zones 10 through 12
- Light needs: Dappled sunlight or shade
- Salt tolerance: Low
- Soil/pH/Texture: Aechmea species can be grown as epiphytes on tree bark and branches, or in the ground in rich, well-drained, and mildly acidic soil.
- Moisture: Moderate water needs.
- Drought tolerance: Moderate
- Pests/Diseases: Root rot may occur if the soil is kept too moist.
- Growing conditions: In nature, Aechmea grows on trees. Therefore, they need to be placed in an area with shade or dappled sun, as direct sunlight can burn the leaves. It can also be grown in containers or directly in the ground as long as the soil drains well. The central “tank” formed in the center of the rosette fills up with water and debris. Flush this tank regularly to get rid of pests and harmful bacteria that could harm the plant.
- Characteristics: Aechmea bromeliads vary in appearance from species to species, but usually have thick, glossy, toothed leaves arranged in a rosette from the base of the plant. This forms a cup in the center of the plant called a “tank” which collects water and debris that the plant absorbs for hydration and nutrients. The leaves vary in color – most species have green leaves, but some have red or purple leaves or even glaucous leaves. Flowers also vary in appearance between species, but there are some common traits. Most have brightly colored flowers in shades of pink, purple, yellow, or red, and all flowers emerge on a tall peduncle that grows directly from the center of the plant. Flower heads may be spiky and star-shaped such as seen in Aechmea fasciata, or with many smaller flower heads as seen in Aechmea azurea.
- Propagation: By pups.
- Wildlife: Frogs can often be found resting in the tank.
- Designer considerations: These epiphytic plants add color to trees with their long-lasting flowers (some species’ flowers can last for a few months). It can also be used as a mass planting or grown indoors as a houseplant to add tropical ambience.
Aechmea Hybrid
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