Aechmea Bromeliads
Aechmea bromeliads are a genus found in Mexico and South America. They derive their name from the Greek word for spear tip, aechme.Over 140 species have been described. In the wild the majority grow in trees as epiphytes. This has resulted in Aechmea bromeliads adapting suitable coping mechanisms for such an environment.
The leaves are used to absorb nutrients and hold water in reserve. They form a cup shaped reservoir where moisture is channeled in from the leaf surfaces. Roots can absorb some dissolved nutrients but often serve as an anchor point as their prinary purpose. Aechmea broms are typically adapted to a life growing in the shade.
