Hylaeaicum wurdackii (L.B.Sm.) Leme, Zizka & Aguirre-Santoro Synonym: Neoregelia 
wurdackii L.B.Sm.
 
Common Names Wurdack’s Bromeliad, Amazon Rosette
 
Zones 10B–11
 
A stoloniferous species native to northern Peru, Hylaeaicum wurdackii features long, linear leaves with brown-centered scales and pink inner sheaths. Its funnelform rosette supports a compound, many-flowered inflorescence sunk deep in the center. This wild-type bromeliad is ideal for ecological restoration, species conservation, and naturalistic vivarium builds.
 
Key Features
Growth Habit: Stoloniferous; funnelform rosette; terrestrial or epiphytic
Size: Leaves up to 80 cm long; rosette diameter variable
Leaves: Linear, attenuate; brown-centered scales; pink inner sheaths; black antrorse spines
Inflorescence: Compound, corymbose; ~3 cm diameter; many-flowered
Bracts & Flowers: Elliptic primary bracts; floral bracts thin and whitish with green midrib; sepals asymmetric; petals white and acuminate
Fruit: Inconspicuous
Ecology: Tank-forming; supports microfauna; suitable for high-humidity environments
 
Growing Conditions
Light: Bright filtered light; avoid direct sun
Watering: Fill central tank with clean water; flush weekly
Soil: Loose, well-draining mix with bark and sphagnum; pH 5.5–6.5
Temperature: 65–85°F (18–29°C); frost-sensitive
Humidity: High (70–90%)
Propagation: By stolons and offsets; slow to moderate spread
Tolerance: Humidity tolerant; sensitive to stagnant moisture
 
Landscape Use Best suited for conservation-focused plantings, naturalistic vivariums, and species restoration projects. Pairs well with Hylaeaicum mooreana, Aechmea chantinii, and Tillandsia tricolor.