Aechmea 'Elegant Ruby'

Bromeliad or urn plant, Aechmea, grows epiphytically in its natural habitat in the rainforests of Central and South America. In temperate climates it is grown as a houseplant. Aechmea ‘Elegant Ruby’ forms a rosette of broad, glossy dark green leaves. From the centre it bears a tall spike with elegant red bracts and clusters of tiny, red and yellow flowers.

Grow Aechmea ‘Elegant Ruby’ in a warm room, in a bright spot out of direct sun. It likes humidity, so place on a tray of damp pebbles or mist regularly. In its natural habitat the rosette of leaves form an 'urn' or well, which collects rainwater. As a houseplant, the plant is watered by filling the urn, too, to around one inch deep. Ideally, use rainwater, or failing that, distilled or filtered water. Empty and refill the urn every couple of weeks to prevent the water stagnating.

The plant is usually sold in flower. This will last for many weeks before it fades and the plant dies back. The plant will form 'pups' or baby plants at its base – when they are around a third of the size of the parent plant, they can be cut away and potted up, forming new plants.