Queen of the Aechmeas Aechmea chantinii

The Amazonian zebra plant is tropical evergreen herbaceous perennial that is a member of the pineapple family (Bromeliaceae) and is native to Tropical South America. In its native habitat, the plant is an epiphyte and attaches itself and climbs over tree trunks and limbs. The Amazonian zebra plant is popular as an ornamental houseplant because of its attractive foliage and flowers.​​​​​​ The species epithet honors the horticulturist "Mr. Chantin, 23, avenue de Châtillon, in Paris," about whom nothing else is known.

The plant thrives in bright, indirect light and moist, fasting-draining potting mix. This species has an unusual trait of being able to store water in a "central tank" or "central cup." The plant takes in water through the center of the rosette and is able to store water so that it can survive through dry periods. The central cup does not need to be completely filled with water except in the presence of bright light and high temperatures. The tank will need to be emptied and rinsed out at least once a month to help prevent insect pests. Distilled water or rainwater is suggested to prevent the build-up of salts that can damage the plant. Water the plant when the top 2 inches of the soil are dry or check the center of the rosette. The plant prefers temperatures between 60 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit and high humidity. It is not frost-tolerant and will need to be overwintered indoors. This plant blooms only once and then dies, but before it dies, it produces one or more offsets ("pups") from the base of the plant. When these offsets are approximately one-third the size of the adult, they can be removed and potted up as new plants.  

The Amazonian zebra plant grows 1 to 3 feet tall and 2 to 3 feet wide. It has an upright vase-shaped habit, and the leaves form a rosette. The leaves are stiff, strap-like, elliptical, leathery, deep green with light yellow vertical stripes and silver horizontal bands. The leaf margins have many small spines. The flower arises from the center of the rosette on a tall red stalk with red bracts, and the bloom has clusters of long-lasting, showy, tubular yellow and red flowers. 

For interesting and colorful foliage, bright flowers, and a tropical vibe, consider adding the Amazonian zebra plant to your houseplant collection. 

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems:  Monitor for mealybugs, spider mites, and scale. Overwatering can cause root rot.

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