Aechmea nudicaulis is an epiphytic or rock dwelling perennial native to central and northern South America where it grows on trees and rocks.
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.
This is a most attractive plant with pale green arching leaves and a spike with large red bracts and greeny yellow flowers during spring and summer.
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.
They do make a good border plant but because of the sharp leaves are not the best choice for a garden with young children.
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.
In tropical and subtropical regions they 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.
When planting in soil make sure that you don't plant them too deep as this can cause the plant to die.
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).
Aechmea nudicaulis can be grown successfully indoors in a sunny room.