Aechmea comata

Aechmea comata is a spring-blooming species of bromeliad with reddish bracts, orange sepals and bright yellow flowers. The sturdy inflorescence is held well above the foliage so the color is visible from far away.

Pollinated flowers develop into reddish fruits that extend the period of visual enjoyment by another couple of months.

The foliage is stiff and heavily armored with spines. The lower part of each leaf has a distinctive depressed area often referred to as a "thumbprint".

The leaves are also marked with purple at the base, especially on the inner side.

Aechmea comata grows about a foot tall and wide, with individual leaves measuring about 2 inches across. I grow mine in about 50-75% sun.