Aechmea fasciata, commonly known as the silver vase plant or urn plant, is a species of flowering plant in the Bromeliaceae family.
It is native to Brazil but can be found in many other tropical and subtropical regions.
It is an epiphytic plant that grows on other plants or trees rather than in soil.
The Aechmea fasciata gets its common name from its beautiful, silver-colored leaves.
It has long, arching leaves that come to a point and resemble an urn or vase.
Some of the common household names for the aechmea fasciata include:
- Urn plant
- Silver vase plant
- Tank bromeliad
The aechmea fasciata is called the tank bromeliad because it has a huge tank-like leaf structure in the center of the plant that can hold a lot of water.
This is beneficial for the plant because it helps to retain moisture in the environment.
Aechmea fasciata is a popular choice for indoor container gardens.
If you’re looking for an easy-to-care-for plant that will add a touch of beauty to your home, you should consider getting an Aechmea fasciata.
Quick Facts On Aechmea Fasciata
- Family: Bromeliaceae
- Light: Bright, indirect light
- Temperature: 65° to 85° degrees Fahrenheit
- Water: Water when the soil is dry
- Fertilizer: Balanced liquid fertilizer or slow-release pellets
- Propagation: Division or offsets
- Common problems: Mealybugs, aphids, crown rot, fungal leaf spots
Aechmea Fasciata Care
Aechmea fasciata is a beautiful, easy-to-grow bromeliad that makes an excellent houseplant.
It is not difficult to care for, but there are a few things to remember.
Here are some tips on how to care for Aechmea fasciata:
What Does The Urn Plant Look Like, And How Big Does It Grow?
The Aechmea fasciata plant is an evergreen perennial that grows to about 2′ feet tall and wide.
The leaves are narrow and lance-shaped, and they are dark green, with silver stripes running along the length of the leaf.
It has long, arching leaves arranged in a rosette shape that come to a point and resemble an urn or vase.
When Does The Silver Vase Plant Flower? Are The Flowers Fragrant?
The Aechmea fasciata plant typically flowers in the spring or summer.
The flowers are pink or purple, and they are not fragrant.
What Are The Lighting Needs, And Temperature Requirements?
Aechmea fasciata grows best in bright, indirect sunlight. However, it can also tolerate low-light conditions.
The leaves will become etiolated (stretched out) if the light is too low.
The ideal temperature range for the urn plant is 60° to 85° degrees Fahrenheit.
How And When To Water And Fertilize The Urn Plant?
Aechmea fasciata should be watered about once a week, allowing the soil to dry out somewhat between waterings.
It is not particularly fussy about fertilizer but benefits from light feeding in spring and summer.
Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer or slow-release pellets at half the recommended strength to your urn plant.
What Is The Best Soil For Aechmea Bromeliads, And When Should You Transplant?
Aechmea fasciata does best in a well-draining potting mix. You can use a commercial potting mix or make your own by mixing equal parts peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite.
The urn plant should be transplanted every 2 to 3 years.
If you find that your Aechmea fasciata is growing too large for its pot, you can transplant it into a larger container.
Make sure to use a well-draining potting mix and to water it sparingly for a few weeks after transplanting.
Does Fasciata Need Special Grooming Or Maintenance?
Aechmea fasciata does not require any special grooming or maintenance.
You can remove dead leaves as needed, and you may want to trim back the urn plant if it starts to get too large.
How To Overwinter The Urn Plant?
Aechmea fasciata is not frost-tolerant, so it will need to be brought indoors or grown under glass if you live in an area with cold winters.
When bringing the urn plant indoors, place it in a sunny location away from drafts.
Also, cut back on watering and fertilizing during the winter months.
How To Propagate The Silver Vase Plant?
If you want more of these beautiful plants, propagation is easy. Aechmea Fasciata can be done by:
- Division
- Seed
However, division is the most common method.
The best time to divide the plant is during its natural resting period in late winter or early spring.
To divide the plant, do the following:
- Simply dig it up and carefully pull it apart into smaller sections.
- Ensure that each section has a good portion of roots attached.
- Then, replant the divisions immediately, keeping them well-watered until they are established.
You can also propagate from seed, but it is a more difficult process, and it can take up to 2 years for the plant to flower when propagated in this way.
To propagate from seed, simply plant the seeds in a pot filled with moist mix and keep them in a warm, sunny spot.
The seeds will germinate and grow slowly, so be patient.
When the plants are big enough to handle, transplant them into individual pots.
Aechmea Fasciata Pests And Diseases
Aechmea fasciata is relatively pest and disease-free but can be susceptible to mealybugs and scale if infested.
If you see these pests on your plant, treat them immediately with an insecticide.
You likely have a mealybug infestation if you notice small, white, fluffy bugs on your plant.
Mealybugs can cause significant damage to plants, so it is important to treat them immediately.
If you see small, brown, shell-like bugs on your plant, you likely have a scale infestation.
Scale can cause significant damage to plants, so it is important to treat them immediately.
The biggest problem this plant faces is rot, which can occur if the roots are too wet or if the plant is sitting in water.
If you see any signs of rot, such as yellowing leaves or mushy stems, immediately remove the affected parts of the plant and allow the remainder to dry out.
Suggested Uses For The Silver Tank Bromeliad
The tank bromeliad is a beautiful plant that makes a great addition to any home. It is relatively easy to care for and can be propagated easily.
This plant is also pest and disease-resistant, making it a great choice for those looking for a low-maintenance plant.
This plant can be used as an accent plant in any room or as a centerpiece. It also makes a great addition to a tropical-themed garden.
For example, you can use it to create a beautiful and exotic display on your patio or deck.
You can also plant it in a pot and keep it indoors.
No matter where you choose to put it, this plant is sure to add some beauty and style to your home.