leaves 12–20, densely rosulate, ensiform from an ovate base 1 in; diam., 6–8 in; long, ⅓ in; broad low down, not setaceous at the point, firm in texture, pale glaucous green. inflorescence: peduncle slender, as long as the leaves; fertile part a few-flowered lax simple distichous spike 2–3 in; long; lower - flowers patent; flower-bract oblong-lanceolate, greenish-red, nearly an inch long. flowers: calyx a little longer than the bract; petal-blade lingulate, white, ½ in; long, shorter than the stamens; claw scaled.Edited from : Baker 1889. (protologue) Handbook of the Bromeliaceae .