Urn Plant (Aechmea fasciata) – Silver Vase Bromeliad with Pink Flower Spike

Urn Plant (Aechmea fasciata)

Also called silver vase plant, the most popular Aechmea for indoors. Center forms an urn/vase shape that collects water in nature; grower refills it. Produces a large flower spike after a couple years, lasting mid-summer to early winter.

Appearance

Typical bromeliad: wide arching strappy leaves, leathery, powdery silver-green. Foliage can be variegated. Flower spike is spiky star-shaped, pink, ~6 inches long, with small violet flowers emerging from bracts. Exotic and eye-catching.

After Flowering

Leaves die after bloom (summer–winter), but offsets (pups) form at base. Propagate when pups reach 5+ inches.

Pet Toxicity: No known toxicity reports.

Ease of Growing: Fairly easy. Needs bright light, filled vase, warm temperatures.

Quick Facts

• Origin: Brazil
• Common Names: Urn plant, pink/silver vase plant
• Botanical Name: Aechmea fasciata
• Max Size: Height 18 in/45.7 cm, diameter 26 in/66 cm
• Pet Toxicity: Non-toxic to cats and dogs

Urn Plant Care

• Temperature: 65–75°F (18.3–24°C); maintain ~75°F (24°C) to induce bloom.
• Light: Bright, indirect light.
• Watering: Top up vase; replace water every 2–3 weeks. Water soil only when top dry; avoid overwatering.
• Soil: Peat-based mix with bark and perlite, or any well-draining mix.
• Re-potting: Young plants: slightly larger container. Mature: replace soil every 2 years without re-potting.
• Fertilizer: May–Sept, monthly diluted liquid fertilizer added to vase. Or foliar feed via misting—don't double-feed.
• Humidity: Average indoor fine.
• Propagation: Offsets (pups) ≥5 inches long. Remove when parent foliage dies down (provides nutrients to pups). Pot in moist soil.

Potential Problems

• Brown leaf tips: Dry air (mist or humidity tray); check vase water.
• Brown leaf patches: Too much direct sun; move to shade, remove damaged leaves.
• Plant dies: If pre-bloom, likely overwatering.
• Insects: Mealybug and scale.
• Topples easily: Top-heavy; use ceramic/heavy pots, not plastic.