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Products > Aechmea recurvata var. recurvata   Aechmea recurvata var. recurvata - False Tillandsia Note: This plant is not currently for sale. This is an archive page preserved for informational use.     Habit and Cultural Information Category: Succulent Family: Bromeliaceae (Bromeliads) Origin: South America Evergreen: Yes Red/Purple Foliage: Yes Flower Color: Pink Bloomtime: Spring/Summer Height: 1-2 feet Width: 1-2 feet Exposure: Sun or Shade Irrigation (H2O Info): Low Water Needs Winter Hardiness: 20-25° F Aechmea recurvata var. recurvata (False Tillandsia) - A epiphytic or sometimes terrestrial bromeliad that grows from sea level to 2,000 feet in altitude in full or partial sun in southern Brazil, Paraguay, Uruguay, and northeastern Argentina. It 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. 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 on this page is based on research conducted in our nursery library and from online sources as well as from observations made of this plant as it grows in our nursery, in the nursery's garden and in other gardens that we have visited. We have also incorporated comments received from others and always appreciate getting feedback of any kind from those who have some additional information, particularly if this information is contrary to what we have written or includes additional cultural tips that would aid others in growing  Aechmea recurvata var. recurvata.     [MORE INFO]