Alcantareas are spectacular foliage plants with minimal requirements.
Type and Habit:  Terrestrial Bromeliad.
Average Height:  2m x 1.5m
Soil:  Very well drained open mix e.g. orchid mix.
Aspect:  Full sun to part shade. If grown in the shade the foliage will appear greener and flush with colour in the cooler weather. Will tolerate low temperatures in a frost free position.
Foliage:  The smooth edged leaves are broad 400 – 500mm in length and arranged in a rosette with a ‘tank’ of water in the centre. The foliage is grey/green above and maroon/red underneath. The red deepens in cooler weather.
Flowers:  Small white flowers appear on a tall (3.5m) branching spike which can last up to 12 months and is very bird attracting.
Uses: Great in large pots, the rosette of leaves is attractive to look down on but the plant is seen to best advantage when elevated and the underside of the foliage revealed. Low maintenance plant for apartment balconies tolerating sun, shade, and winds.
Features:  Low maintenance, high impact plant with spectacular foliage form and colour. In Sydney this plant will survive happily with local rainfall if grown in the open.