The dark leaves of Aechmea Royal Wine are a colorful addition to the landscape all year long. When the plant comes into bloom the leaves provide a perfect background for the orange inflorescence. The flower spike arches over to rest on the leaves or hover just above them. Blue flowers emerge from berry-like buds.
Like many Aechmeas, the inflorescence is fairly long lasting. This one will hold good color for about two months. The season of bloom is variable. I've had them bloom in the winter and also in the spring. The warmer temperatures in the spring seem to cause the inflorescence to be lighter in color.
Plants get about two feet across and a foot tall. Mine get filtered sun throughout the day with a little direct sun in the late afternoon.
A mass planting of them would make a nice dark groundcover.
You are right, the dark colour of the leaves provide an outstanding background against the bright orange blooms! Never seen this plant before too..
ReplyDeleteThe plant has a rich dark colour. The flowers are pretty.
ReplyDeleteBeautiful intensity in these blossoms. Sensual and lovely both.
ReplyDeleteI haven't seen this one either. And I agree, you are right about the dark color being a great background. The bright color pops against the dark, rich leaves.
ReplyDelete