Urn plant

Aechmea fasciata is a tropical epiphytic bromeliad grown for its stiff, silver-banded leaves and long-lasting pink flower spike. Its vase-shaped rosette suits a bright indoor room or, in frost-free climates, a sheltered patio or warm-climate planting. ## Appearance and placement Broad, leathery green leaves have silvery cross-bands and toothed edges. At maturity, usually after several years, a central stalk carries pink bracts around small violet flowers. The flowering rosette blooms once and gradually declines while producing offsets at its base. North Carolina State Extension gives a mature range of 1–3 feet tall by 1–2 feet wide. ## Growing conditions Give bright filtered light or partial shade. Use a loose, well-drained medium that stays lightly moist; the leaf cup can hold a small amount of water. The species is native to southeastern Brazil and is best treated as a warm-climate plant or houseplant outside frost-free areas. ## Maintenance Refresh the water in the central cup about monthly and reduce watering in winter. Watch for scale and mealybugs, and avoid saturated potting mix that can cause root or crown rot. After flowering, let offsets develop; separate and pot them once they are large enough to establish on their own. See [N.C. State Extension](https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/aechmea-fasciata/common-name/urn-plant/) and [NParks](https://www.nparks.gov.sg/florafaunaweb/flora/1/6/1603) for additional growing details.