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Aechmea recurvata var. recurvata (False Tillandsia) - A epiphytic or sometimes terrestrial bromeliad that grows 12-15 inches tall with stiff compact rosettes with many firm recurved glossy yellow-green spine-toothed leaves with centers that turn red and outer leaves that turn rose colored when the plant is in flower. In spring to summer the flower spike rises up above the foliage (which distinguishes it from other varieties of A. recurvata such as the varieties ortgiesii and benrathii). The inflorescence is showy with bright orange-red bracts and pink to violet flowers that poke out towards the top of a thorny bright red crown.
Plant in full sun to light shade - colors best in bright light. Irrigate occasionally to regularly. Hardy to short duration to 20 F or slightly below. This tough little plant is able to withstand salt spray strong winds and considerable dryness. A nice addition to the succulent or rock garden where it can be planted in well-drained soil on rocks or driftwood.
Aechmea recurvata var. recurvata grows naturally from sea level to 2,000 feet in altitude in full or partial sun in southern Brazil, Paraguay, Uruguay, and northeastern Argentina. The name for the genus comes from the Greek word 'aichme' meaning "spearhead" or "a point" in reference to thorny tips on the sepals and bracts. The specific epithet is the Latin word meaning recurved in reference to the way the leaves arch over.
This information about Aechmea recurvata var. recurvata displayed is based on research conducted in our horticultural library and from reliable online resources. We also will relate observations made about it as it grows in our nursery gardens and other gardens we have visited, as well how the crops have performed in containers in our nursery field. We will also incorporate comments that we receive from others and we welcome hearing from anyone with additional information, particularly if they can share any cultural information that would aid others in growing it.
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