Aechmea chantinii
Amazonian zebra plant
An evergreen perennial forming a rosette of leathery, strap-shaped leaves marbled with grey, from the centre of which arises a branched spike of yellow flowers with conspicuous red bracts
Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metresTime to ultimate height
5–10 yearsUltimate spread
0.5–1 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green Grey Silver | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Green Grey Silver | |||
| Autumn | Green Grey Silver | |||
| Winter | Green Grey Silver |
Position
- Full sun
- Partial shade
Aspect
South–facing or East–facing
Exposure
Sheltered Hardiness
H1BBotanical details
- Family
- Bromeliaceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- No
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Habit
- Tufted
- Genus
Aechmea are evergreen perennials forming funnel-shaped rosettes of strap-shaped leaves, with a terminal spike of tubular flowers often with colourful triangular bracts, followed by fleshy fruits
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- Colombia, Peru, Amazonian Venezuela and Brazil
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow under glass or indoors in a epiphytic bromeliad compost in bright filtered light and low humidity. In the growing season water freely and apply a low nitrogen fertiliser monthly. Keep the central ""cup"" filled with soft water. Can be grown outdoors epiphytically in a warm, moist site or in moist, gritty, humus-rich soil
Propagation
Propagate by rooting offsets in early summer
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Patio and container plants
- City and courtyard gardens
Pruning
No pruning required
Pests
May be susceptible to scale insects and mealybugs
Diseases
Generally disease-free
Get involved
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