urn plant
Aechmea fasciata
Overview
The urn plant (Aechmea fasciata) is an amazing species because of its striking foliage and interesting growth habit. It is one of the few bromeliads that produces structural leaves in a rosette pattern and colorful flower spikes. Its evergreen leaves can range from deep green to silver and can feature stripes, spots, or variegation. Additionally, this species is known to produce offsets, which makes it easier to propagate. And, finally, its vivid red, pink, or yellow flowers, depending on the variety, are stunning and last for months.
Care Guide
Watering
Urn plants need to be watered fairly regularly, about once a week in the warmer months and every 2 to 3 weeks in the cooler months. Make sure to thoroughly moisten the soil in order to encourage the roots to establish and grow. Water should be applied slowly and evenly, allowing excess water to drain away. Do not let the soil become overly dry or soggy.
Light
The urn plant (Aechmea fasciata) typically prefers bright, indirect sunlight. It should receive at least a few hours of indirect sunlight per day, and can tolerate more, up to 8 hours per day. Bright, indirect sunlight is best in the morning or late afternoon when the sun is not at its strongest. Avoid exposing the plant to extended periods of direct sunlight, as this could cause the leaves to become scorched.
Soil
Well-drained
Temperature
Hardiness zone 10-11.
Pruning
The urn plant (Aechmea fasciata) should be lightly trimmed once a year to remove dead leaves and to create a more compact, shapely form. The best time to prune is during the growing season, around late spring or early summer. You should only remove a third of the longest leaves and branches, leaving the urn plant with enough foliage to keep it healthy and full. Pruning shall start with the base of the plant, remove the old leaves to allow the new and younger leaves to spread out. Pruning should not be done in the winter months as this can disrupt the growth cycle.
Propagation
Seed Propagation
Diseases & Pests
Common pests: Crown rot, Mealybugs, Root rot, Scale insects.
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