Alcantarea vinicolor

Large urn-shaped perennial evergreen bromeliad with long strap-like purple leaves growing to 1m wide by 0.8m tall, and taller when in flower.

Long rounded tipped strap-like purple leaves grow in an urn shape that collects water and nutrients in the crown. Tall flower spikes up to 2m in height with many small yellow flowers are produced in summer.

Best planted in free-draining soil, in light shade to full sun, so that the leaves retain their colour. They can tolerate windy and coastal conditions.

For container-grown plants, freshen the water in the central tank area to prevent stagnation and when watering be sure to fill the central reservoir. Little other maintenance is required other than taking off old leaves. Bromeliads often do not require fertilising as they collect all the nutrients they require from the organic matter that falls into the centre of the plant where it rots down they absorb what they require from this.

Provides a habitat for invertebrates.

These plants are susceptible to rot if not planted in optimum conditions. Rot will occur if they get too wet.

Other bromeliads and tropical looking plants, palms and orchids are often planted as companions.

In their native habitat, these plants actually grow on rocks.