An unusual bromeliad of the Atlantic Forest of Brazil from the states of Rio de Janeiro to Santa Catarina in lowland forests up to about 1,000 feet. Usually an epiphyte in nature, it is also sometimes found as a lithophyte or growing on the ground. A shade lover in nature, it can be grown successfully in almost any kind of light from deep shade to full sun.

A large grower, easily reaching 4 feet across, with 2 inch wide leaves, heavily armed with large red spines. The colors, coppery to bronzy-green, mottled with darker markings and vivid red tips extending several inches, darken in strong light. A bit of a shy bloomer, the inflorescence, nested in the center, has pointed red bracts and white flowers. Great for landscape or as a large showy container plant.

*VIPP plants are Offsets