Alcantarea imperialis
 
Common Names Imperial Bromeliad, Giant Alcantarea
 
Zones 10B–11
 
One of the largest bromeliads in the world, Alcantarea imperialis is a slow-growing terrestrial species native to the rocky slopes of Brazil’s Serra dos Órgãos. Its massive rosette of leathery, bluish-green leaves can span over 5 feet wide, with a towering red inflorescence reaching up to 10 feet tall. The central tank can hold over 30 liters of water, supporting frogs, insects, and hummingbirds2.
 
Key Features
Growth Habit: Massive upright rosette; solitary; terrestrial lithophyte
Size: 4–5 ft (120–150 cm) tall; 5–6 ft (150–180 cm) wide; inflorescence up to 10 ft (3 m) tall
Leaves: Oblong, leathery, bluish-green above, deep magenta below; entire margins; drooping apex
Flowers: Tall red spike with tubular yellow flowers and red bracts; blooms after decades
Fruit: Inconspicuous; retained in inflorescence
Ecology: Tank supports amphibians and aquatic insects; attracts hummingbirds and pollinators
 
Growing Conditions
Light: Full sun to part shade; best color in sun
Watering: Occasional; keep tank filled and flush regularly
Soil: Free-draining, rocky or sandy mix; roots absorb little water
Temperature: Protect below 40°F (4.4°C); not frost-tolerant
Humidity: High humidity preferred
Propagation: By offsets (“pups”) after flowering
Tolerance: Heat, drought; low salt tolerance
 
Landscape Use Ideal for large-scale tropical landscapes, xeric gardens, and dramatic specimen containers. Pairs well with Vriesea gigantea, Neoregelia ‘Galaxy’, and Encephalartos ferox.