Brazilian Vaseplant
- Common name: Brazilian Vaseplant
- Scientific name: Aechmea distichantha
- Family name: Bromeliaceae
- Origin: South America
- Height: 2 to 3 ft
- Width: 1 to 3 ft
- Growth: Slow
- Zone: USDA Zones 10B through 11
- Light needs: Dappled shade
- Salt tolerance: Low
- Soil/pH/Texture: This bromeliad can be grown both epiphytically and in-ground. If grown on tree branches, place moss around the roots to retain moisture. If grown in-ground, place in slightly moist, well-drained soil which is slightly acidic (pH around 6.5).
- Moisture: Little soil moisture is needed. Make sure that the tank in the center is consistently holding water, as this is how the plant absorbs moisture. Tolerant of high humidity.
- Drought tolerance: High
- Pests/Diseases: Root rot may occur with overly moist soil. Mosquitoes may breed in the tank if it is not flushed out regularly.
- Growing conditions: This bromeliad needs little care once established. It grows easily in the ground or in trees, as long as the area is not too sunny. If you wish to mount it on a tree branch, wire it in place until it is able to hold itself up. This plant does not absorb water and nutrients through its roots, but instead from the tank formed in the center of the rosette. This tank should be flushed out if mosquitoes or other pests begin to breed in it. Make sure that the tank is consistently about ¼ full. It does not need regular watering, as most of the time rainwater is sufficient to keep the tank filled.
- Characteristics: The leaves of the plant grow directly from the base in a rosette formation, creating a gap in the center which is used for water and nutrient collection. The leaves are medium to light green, linear, with toothed margins and an acute to mucronate apex. The tall, showy inflorescence consists of spreading clusters of blue or purple flowers surrounded by bright pink bracts. After flowering, the plant will begin to decline, producing several offsets before dying.
- Propagation: By offsets.
- Wildlife: Frogs and insects often take refuge in the center of the rosette.
- Designer considerations: It is a great accent for tree branches, where its smooth and stiff foliage will contrast with the coarser tree foliage. Make sure that it is not in an area where it will be brushed up against, as the edges of the leaves are sharp. Pair with plants that have smaller, cool toned flowers to contrast with this plant’s large, warm toned flowers.
Location
Bromeliad Island Garden
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Brazilian Vaseplant