Aechmea nudicaulis
 
Common Names Urn Plant, Naked-Stem Aechmea
 
Zones 10A–11
 
A hardy, medium-sized bromeliad native to Central and South America, Aechmea nudicaulis thrives in rocky outcrops, forest margins, and coastal scrub. Its upright rosette of green, spiny-edged leaves supports a vivid red inflorescence with yellow drop-shaped flowers. Adaptable to both terrestrial and epiphytic settings, it’s prized for its resilience, architectural form, and restoration value in tropical ecosystems2.
 
Key Features
Growth Habit: Upright rosette; slow clumper; epiphytic or terrestrial
Height: 12–32 in (30–80 cm)
Leaves: Elliptic, green, sharply pointed with fine spines; arranged in tight rosette
Flowers: Yellow, drop-shaped; borne on red central spike; annual bloom cycle
Fruit: Small berries; retained in inflorescence
Ecology: Leaf tanks support microfauna; attracts hummingbirds and pollinators; restoration-friendly
 
Growing Conditions
Light: Bright filtered light to partial sun; avoid direct midday sun
Watering: Moderate; keep central tank filled and flush monthly
Soil: Well-draining mix; tolerates rocky or sandy substrates
Temperature: Protect below 30°F (–1°C); frost-sensitive
Humidity: High humidity preferred
Propagation: Division of pups or seed; vegetative preferred
Tolerance: Heat, drought, salt spray; ideal for coastal restoration
 
Landscape Use Excellent for xeric tropical gardens, restoration sites, and container culture. Pairs well with Tillandsia fasciculata, Neoregelia compacta, and Vriesea saundersii.