Description
- Common names:
- Silver Vase, Urn Plant, Aechmea, Silver Vase Bromeliad, Planta Urna, Bromelia Plateada
- Botanical name:
- Aechmea fasciata, Bromeliad fasciata
- Description:
- A striking Brazilian bromeliad featuring thick, arching gray-green leaves with silver bands and a spectacular pink flower spike that lasts for months, perfect for adding tropical flair.
Features
- Rarity:
- Common Household Favorite
- Pet & Babies safety:
- Non-Toxic & Pet-Friendly
- Air Purifier:
- Moderate Air Purifier (6/10)
- Form factor:
- Rosette, Architectural, Flowering, Variegated Leaves
- Origin:
- Brazil
- Aesthetic advantages:
- Living Room centerpiece, Modern interiors, Bathroom with humidity, Office desk accent, Tropical and Bohemian style
Care Guide
Care level:
Easy Care+
This bromeliad is forgiving and ideal for busy plant owners. It requires minimal maintenance and can tolerate occasional neglect, making it perfect for beginners who want a striking statement plant.
Light:
Medium / Indirect Light+
Thrives in bright, indirect light near an east or west-facing window. Too much direct sun will scorch the leaves, while too little light may prevent flowering and cause the silver banding to fade.
Water:
Keep Soil Moist+
Keep the central cup (vase) filled with fresh water, replacing it weekly to prevent stagnation. Water the soil lightly when the top inch feels dry, but avoid overwatering the roots as bromeliads are susceptible to rot.
Humidity:
Prefers High Humidity+
Prefers humidity levels above 50-60%, mimicking its tropical origins. Increase humidity by placing on a pebble tray, grouping with other plants, or using a humidifier, especially in dry indoor environments.
Temperature:
Prefers Warmth+
Thrives in warm temperatures between 18-27°C (65-80°F) and should be kept away from cold drafts or temperatures below 15°C (60°F). Consistent warmth encourages vibrant foliage and promotes flowering.
Hardiness zones:
Zones 10-12+
Hardy outdoors year-round only in USDA Zones 10-12 where temperatures rarely drop below 4°C (40°F). In cooler zones, it thrives as a houseplant or can be moved outdoors during warm summer months.
Fertilizing:
Light Feeder+
Feed sparingly with a diluted liquid fertilizer (quarter strength) once every 2-3 months during the growing season (spring through summer). Apply fertilizer to both the soil and the central cup for best results.
Repotting:
Likes to be Root-Bound+
Bromeliads prefer snug containers and rarely need repotting. The mother plant dies after flowering, producing offsets (pups) that can be separated and potted once they reach one-third the size of the parent plant.
Cleaning:
Wipe Leaves Regularly+
Gently wipe the thick leaves with a damp cloth to remove dust and maintain the attractive silver banding. Clean leaves allow the plant to photosynthesize efficiently and showcase its ornamental beauty.
Propagation:
Division+
Propagate by carefully separating the pups (offsets) that grow at the base of the mother plant after flowering. Wait until pups are at least one-third the parent's size, then remove with roots attached and pot in well-draining bromeliad mix.