Bromeliad Aechmea

Bromeliad Aechmea is a tropical epiphyte, meaning that they naturally grow in trees for support. They are not parasitic, and have roots that cling to branches. The flowers are actually bracts that can remain colorful for up to 2 or more months.

Bromeliad Achmea provides long-lasting color for interior plantings and shady patios. This is a relatively low maintenance plant, and can grow as a potted plant or mounted onto ornamental driftwood or stems. Gardeners should be aware of the following characteristic(s) that may warrant special consideration; Disease. Bromeliad Achmea is recommended for adding color and interest to homes and commercial interior plantings. On shady patios, it can be easily moved to various locations of indirect sunlight for special events or effects.

Bromeliad Achmea grows to about 2ft tall and wide depending on the variety. It begins as a vase-shaped rosette until the bloom begins forming. It quickly will produce a colorful flower spike of bracts that contain the bright blue flowers. These flowers last only a short time, but this spike can remain colorful for several months. This plant should be grown in bright, indirect sunlight, either indoors or outdoors. Bromeliads have roots used for clinging to branches for support, so they absorb very little water on their own. For this reason, the soil or media around the roots must be kept moist but never wet for long periods. While the plant is growing and blooming, maintaining a small amount of water in the "vase" portion of the center will provide most of the moisture necessary. Weak diluted fertilizers can also be added to this water or sprayed on the foliage. The main characteristic for the soil is that it drain well and be porous to allow plenty of air circulation. A slightly acidic pH is preferable but not required. Bromeliads produce offsets, or pups, once the blooming cycle is finished. These can be separated from the main plant when they have grown to about two-thirds the size of the original plant and have produced aerial roots of their own. All Bromeliads can be grown as houseplants or as eccents and focal points on a shady patio outdoors. As tropical plants, they should be protected from any cooler temperatures below 55 degrees F.