An outstanding rarity from the Amazon basin oft confused with Ae. polyantha because of an early illustration by Margaret Mee. If you have seen this illustration of a massively bulbous, spiny Aechmea with a multiple-branched panicle of berries, then this is the plant. Only the name in her book is wrong.
Extremely desirable, this plant remains rare in cultivation and a much sought jewel for collectors. It is not difficult to grow, but is cold tender. The body of the plant can reach the size and shape of a football with relatively narrow leaves exiting out at right angles. Fairly heavily armed with stout spines.
This plant is on C.I.T.E.S. and cannot be exported.
