Aechmea bromeliifolia
(Rudge) Baker
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Summary
Source: WikipediaAechmea bromeliifolia is a bromeliad native to southern Mexico, Central America, Trinidad, and South America as far south as northern Argentina.
Description
A pineapple like plant, but larger. It grows attached to other plants and in the forks of trees. There are 12-20 shoots in a ring and these are 50-100 cm long by 4-11 cm wide. There are teeth along the edge and hook shaped spines. The flower is in the centre of the ring of leaves. It is white. The ripe flowers are removed from the spike and have a sweet layer around the seeds. The seeds are 4-9 mm long and crescent shaped.
Edible Uses
The base of the flower buds is sucked for the sweet sap.
Traditional Uses
The base of the buds is sucked.
This uses section is brief — help expand it
Distribution
It is a tropical plant.
Where It Grows
Brazil, South America,
Cultivation
It can be grown from seeds. The sticky pulp should be removed by washing in running water. It can be grown in soil or in the forks of trees. It can be grown from seedlings of the clump.
Synonyms
Also Known As
Ananarana, Guaraique
References (2)
- Kew Plants of the World onLine
- www.colecionandofrutas.org
