Aechmea blanchetiana or Blanchet's Aechmea is a bromeliad native of Brazil.
This is a spectacular plant with pale green to bright orange arching leaves depending on the amount of sun it receives. The more sun the brighter orange the leaves.
The flower spike has a terminal multi-branched inflorescence of small flowers surrounded by red and yellow bracts during spring.
Once the plant has flowered it will produce pups around the base of the plant. The pups will take nutrients from the dying parent plant and can be removed and replanted when they reach about a third of the parent.
The strap-like leaves are leathery and have backward facing spines along the leaf margin. They are very sharp so take care when handling them, gloves are recommended.
The leaves grow in a rosette formation creating a well in the centre that collects and stores water for the plant. When watering these always ensure that the well is filled with water as most of the water is absorbed through modified cells at the base of the leaves.
The wonderful coloured leaves make them an excellent feature plant in gardens or patios.