“Urn plant”

Aechmea fasciata is related to the pineapple (same family, Bromeliaceae) and is known by the common names “urn plant” or “Silver vase plant.” Like Spanish moss, this is an “epiphyte,” which can grow in the ground or on a tree without taking any nourishment from the tree.

Species page at PhytoImages, http://phytoimages.siu.edu/cgi-bin/dol/dol_terminal.pl?taxon_name=Aechmea_fasciata&rank=binomial

More information at its Missouri Botanical Garden page: http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/gardens-gardening/your-garden/plant-finder/plant-details/kc/b647/aechmea-fasciata.aspx

Photo taken at SIUC Plant Biology Greenhouse, http://www.plantbiology.siu.edu/facilities/plant-biology-facilities/greenhouse/index.php

One year ago (“10 p.m. desperation”): http://365project.org/rhoing/365/2012-04-22
Two years ago (“Happy Easter in Beantown!”): http://365project.org/rhoing/365/2011-04-22

[Rick Schies]

A very pretty species

[Michelle]

I don't think I have seen one of these before. Beautiful colour

[Frank Hymus]

Beautiful shot. This looks like a very prickly customer!