Aechmea fasciata - The Urn Plant

The Urn Plant, a bromeliad. Originates from South America.

The Plant: Urn Plants are tough, leathery, plants, with broad, strap-like leaves forming a central ‘reservoir’ which holds water - the Urn! Occasionally produces brush-like red/pink flowers.

Normally grown as a houseplant, Urn Plants can also be grown outside in summer months, in which case, remember that it is mainly an Epiphyte. It normally grows in crotches of tree branches - using the live tree for its 'host'!

It does not feed from the host plant, but gets its food source from the air!.

Its needs: Warmth and humidity, protect from winter chill. Good light but no direct sun. Potting compost should be mixed with gravel, vermiculite, bark-chippings, or pot ‘crocks’, to promote very good drainage. This plant prefers a moist top to a soggy bottom! Regular misting is necessary.

Care: Feed your Urn Plants weekly in growing season, reducing water and food in winter. Aechmeas thrives in warm humid conditions. (Originates from Amazon rainforest). Avoid cold. This tough plant can suffer from scale pest. It enjoys having it's central 'urn' filled with water. This is what happens in the wild.

Good for: Architectural plant, stands alone.

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