Introducing: Aechmea brassicoides by Harry E. Luther in J. Brom. Soc. 45(5): 218. 1995. Aechmea brassicoides was described by Baker in 1882. The type and all subsequent collections have been from the vicinity of Kaietur Falls in Guyana. The plant is usually an epiphyte.
Apart from having a somewhat attractive inflorescence, this species presents a notable growth habit reflected in its specific name. The "Cabbage Bromeliad" produces, at maturity, a series of densely overlapping, often imbricated leaves that effectively create a seal over the center of the rosette. The protected hollow formed may be advantageous in acquiring an ant colony. Many epiphytes in areas of poor soil form relationships with ants as part of their nutritional strategy. Ants bring all sorts of debris to their nest; this nutritious compost is usually rich in nitrogen and other minerals important for plant growth. Epiphytes with ants often grow more strongly than those without ants.
When Aechmea brassicoides comes into flower, the developing inflorescence punctures one or more of the overlapping, centermost leaves. This condition sometimes results in a plant with an inflorescence growing from one side of the rosette instead of straight from the center. Judges should take note ! —SeeSmith & Downs 1979
Aechmea brassicoidesi was last noted in the JOURNAL more than 30 years ago (volume 13:57-58, 1963) as a species of the defunct genus Gravisia. Readers familiar with the name Gravisia probably also remember 25cent cups of coffee.
Aechmea brassicoides was described by Baker in 1882. The type and all subsequent collections have been from the vicinity of Kaietur Falls in Guyana. The plant is usually an epiphyte.
Apart from having a somewhat attractive inflorescence, this species presents a notable growth habit reflected in its specific name. The "Cabbage Bromeliad" produces, at maturity, a series of densely overlapping, often imbricated leaves that effectively create a seal over the center of the rosette. The protected hollow formed may be advantageous in acquiring an ant colony. Many epiphytes in areas of poor soil form relationships with ants as part of their nutritional strategy. Ants bring all sorts of debris to their nest; this nutritious compost is usually rich in nitrogen and other minerals important for plant growth. Epiphytes with ants often grow more strongly than those without ants.
When Aechmea brassicoides comes into flower, the developing inflorescence punctures one or more of the overlapping, centermost leaves. This condition sometimes results in a plant with an inflorescence growing from one side of the rosette instead of straight from the center. Judges should take note ! —SeeLuther 1995ep. 45(5): 218-219
