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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.
The information displayed on this page about Aechmea recurvata var. recurvata is based on the research we have conducted about it in our nursery library as well as from information provided by reliable online resources. We also include our own observations made about this plant as it grows in the nursery gardens and other gardens visited, as well how the crops of this plant have performed in the containers in our nursery field. We will also incorporate comments that we have received from others and welcome hearing from anyone with information about this plant, particularly if it includes cultural information that will aid others to better grow it.
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