Aechmea fasciata (Urn Plant)

Native to southeastern Brazil, Aechmea fasciata (Urn Plant) is a tender evergreen perennial boasting a pretty rosette of broad, strap-shaped, cross-striped silver and green leaves. Thick, the leaves arch away to create a vase or urn shape, hence the common name. In mature plants (3 years old), one huge, pure pink flower spike emerges from that vase, consisting of small purple flowers surrounded by showy bright pink bracts. Their outstanding floral display lasts for several months. Urn Plant blooms only once and then dies. However, it produces offsets (pups) at the base of the plant after flowering. The offsets can be transplanted when they are at least 6 in. tall (15 cm) and planted in fresh, barely moist potting mix. In their native Brazil, Urn Plants grow in the ground or in trees. Fortunately, they thrive in almost any indoor environment with little care.

• Grows up to 1-3 ft. tall (30-90 cm) and 1-2 ft. wide (30-60 cm).
• Performs best in part shade in humus-rich, gritty, well-drained soils. Keep the soil moist but not saturated. Maintain 1 in. water (2.5 cm) inside the urn itself. Remove the water and rinse your plant at least once a month. Add soluble fertilizer to the water every month.
• Average room temperatures should be 65-75°F (18-24°C).
• If your Urn Plant does not bloom: place a ripe apple at the base of the plant and cover the plant with a clear plastic bag for a week or two. The apple gives off ethylene gas that promotes blooming. Keep your plant out of direct sun while it is covered.
• No serious pest or disease issues. Keep an eye out for scale and mealybugs. Root rot may occur if soils are kept too moist. Brown leaf tips are a sign that the plant is too dry.
• Propagate by offsets.
• Native to Brazil.