Aechmea chantinii 'Purple'

Aechmea chantinii is a medium to large epiphytic bromeliad with a wide distribution. It grows in Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, and the Amazonian part of Brazil at altitudes of 200 to 660 meters above sea level. It is a typical "funnel bromeliad" or "tank bromeliad," with upright leaves that form a watertight tank in their center.

Rainwater and leaves collect in this reservoir, supplying the Aechmea with water and nutrients. The water reservoirs of bromeliads, known as phytotelmata, provide habitat for numerous animals. Many of these are entirely dependent on these phytotelmata and are only found where a sufficient number of bromeliads grow; for example, numerous frogs or Diptera, whose aquatic larvae inhabit the reservoirs. The large and widespread Aechmea chantinii is one of the most popular habitats for these animals. Its leaves are remarkably stiff and spiny along the edges.

Aechmea chantinii reaches a diameter of 80-100 cm, but in cultivation it usually remains smaller, at only about 30-40 cm in diameter. The diameter is also strongly influenced by the amount of light it receives. The more light/sun it gets, the more upright the leaves grow and the narrower the funnel becomes. The characteristic coloration also becomes more intense. The cultivar ' Purple ' is distinguished by an irregular, white striped pattern on the underside of the leaves and a very dark, purple-tinged base color. It should be noted that this coloration only develops so beautifully under intense sunlight/lighting. Being outdoors in summer is very beneficial for the coloration (UV radiation!).

The white stripes are formed by so-called "absorbent scales" (modified trichomes = plant hairs), which can quickly become saturated with water in the rain. These scales are clearly visible in the close-up photos in the gallery.

Aechmea chantinii blooms with yellow flowers on a red flower stalk. The flower stalk reaches a height of approximately 70 to 90 cm. After flowering, it produces 1 to 3 offsets.



For sale are nearly fully grown plants, approximately 30cm in diameter and 30 to 40cm tall. The plants are either unrooted or already have root primordia.