leaves few, ensiform from an oblong-base, 12–15 in; long, ¾ –1 in; broad, at the middle, narrowed to the point, sharply minutely serrated. inflorescence: peduncle as long as the leaves; upper bract-leaves with erecto-patent lanceolate points; fertile part a lax 6–8-flowered suberect spike, with a slender straight rachis; floral bracts minute. pistil: ovary naked, subcylindical, ½ in; long. flowers: sepals linear-oblong, obtuse, an inch long; petals linear, 2 in; long, tipped with violet. stamens shorter than the petals.Edited from : Baker 1889. (protologue) Handbook of the Bromeliaceae .