leaves densely rosulate, subulate from the clasping base, an inch long, densely laxly lepidote. inflorescence: peduncle 1–3 in; long; fertile part a dense simple distichous spike 1–2 in; long, ¼-⅓ in; broad; floral bracts oblong-lanceolate, ¼-⅓ in; long. flowers: calyx as long as the flower-bract; petal-blade obovate, red-lilac, ¼ in; long. stamens not longer than the calyx.Edited from : Baker 1889. Handbook of the Bromeliaceae .