Urn plant - Aechmea fasciata (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images)

Urn plant

Also known as: Silver vase

Urn plant (Aechmea fasciata) is a species of flowering bromeliad also known as a silver vase. Urn plant is somewhat difficult to grow, requiring shade and well-drained soil. It's a toxic plant that can irritate human skin. Insects are sometimes attracted to water that pools in the leaves of the plant.

Scientific classification

Species

Urn plant (Aechmea fasciata)

Grasses, sedges and allies

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Perennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Mid spring, Late spring, Summer, Early fall

Bloom Time

Summer

Harvest Time

30 cm to 90 cm

Plant Height

60 cm

Spread

Silver, Green, Gray

Leaf Color

2.5 cm

Flower Size

White

Fruit Color

Pink, Purple, Blue, Red

Flower Color

Gray, Silver

Stem Color

Non-dormant

Dormancy

Evergreen

Leaf type

20 - 41 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Urn plant

Distribution of Urn plant

Distribution Map

Urn plant is native to southeastern Brazil. In its natural habitat, it is attached to the bark of trees in forests within mountainous regions. It favors high altitudes, typically growing 549 mabove sea level.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Trees in mountain forests

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Garden Use

Urn plant (Aechmea fasciata) is a bromeliad that is most commonly grown as a houseplant in temperate climates. The plant has dual ornamental appeal both with its long, curling, two-colored leaves and its extravagant pink flower which blooms for weeks at a time. Plants that look fabulous next to this one include cycads, begonias, anthuriums, and dracaenas.

Symbolism

Protection, a divine gift

Name Story

Urn plant: The plant is featured with leathery tough arched leaves in blotched silver and sea green that overlaps into a rosette, forming a watertight "vase" or "urn" which inspires the common name. Scale insects and mosquitos will sometimes lay eggs in the pools of water that are trapped between the leaves.

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Care Guide for Urn plant

Every week

Water

Partial sun

Sunlight

20 - 41 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Potting Mix, Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Urn plant thrives in humid conditions, preferring balanced soil moisture. Moderately drought-tolerant, it benefits from weekly watering. Grown indoors for its ornamental value, using a pebble tray with water enhances humidity, reflecting its tropical origins and promoting vibrant flowering.

Fertilize: Fertilize urn plant monthly with high phosphorus fertilizer during the growing season, reducing to every other month in winter. Dilute to half strength to prevent root damage. Avoid contact with the water-holding cup. Young plants require less fertilizer for optimal health and appearance.

Pruning: Urn plant features silver-banded leaves and pink flower bracts. Prune in early spring or late winter by removing dead leaves and spent stalks to enhance growth and airflow. Use clean, sharp tools to prevent disease, avoiding over-pruning to maintain foliage for photosynthesis.

Propagation: The best propagation method for urn plant is division in Spring or Autumn. The process is moderately difficult, with success marked by new shoots. High humidity is essential for optimal results.

Repotting: Repot urn plant every 2-3 years after flowering, early spring is ideal. Use a shallow, wide pot and place in bright, indirect light. Water moderately post-repotting and employ a well-draining potting mix to support this slow-growing, rosette-forming plant, which can reach 18 inches.

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Images of Urn plant

Distribution of Urn plant

Culture

Care Guide for Urn plant

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