Aechmea bracteata 'Rubra' VIPP 11-27 These plants are like ‘ordinary’

These plants are like ‘ordinary’ ionanthas except for the fact that they grow very large with many more leaves than typical plants

with orange bracts

with prominently raised veins

We collected seeds from several plants grew our crop from variable seedlings

Aechmea bracteata 'Rubra' VIPP 11-27 These plants are like ‘ordinary’This species native from Mexico to Northern South America is a favorite of landscapers in south Florida due to its interesting shape; an upright and spreading, bulbous based rosette, with large, decorative marginal spines. In full sun its leaves will take on a deep reddish hue. The inflorescence is a tall and loose panicle of red bracts and berry like fruits. Can be grown as an epiphyte or terrestrial.