Aechmea mulfordii is a medium to large bromeliad from Brazil that grows best in a semi sunny spot.
The silver-purple leaves are strap-like, arching and leathery with sharp spines along the leaf margin. The leaves grow in a rosette formation.
The flower stem grows from the centre and terminates in a showy multi-branched panicle of Golden orange flowers.
In tropical and subtropical regions Aechmea will grow outside on trees or in garden beds. They prefer filtered sun, humid conditions and a sheltered aspect but will grow in full sun. They also can be enjoyed as an indoor plant - though this one would be too large for that purpose.
These epiphytes do not take nutrients from the host tree but obtain most of their water and nutrients from the urn created by the rosette of leaves.
If you wish to grow them on a tree, place sphagnum moss around the roots before either wedging the plant in the fork of a tree branch or securing it to trunk using a semi-circular clip around the base of the young plant (Pup).