This variable epiphytic perennial forms a funnel with numerous strap-like mid green leaves radiating outwards in a rosette with prickly margins. The whitish tube-shaped flowers appear in a central cluster and are accompanied with bright red bracts.

Hardiness zones 10 to 12

Nidularium innocentiiis naturally found in South America growing in Brazil in rainforests from sea level to an altitude of 2,000m (6,500ft) in the adjoining mountains.

It feeds on composted organic material and prefers semi shaded or filtered light in a wind protected humid position and is frost and drought tender.

This Bird's-nest Bromeliad is grown for its colourful bracts and is used as a specimen in a tropical garden. It is also mass planted as an understorey along borders or grown as a potted specimen in a glasshouse collection. It establishes in 3 to 5 years and is suitable for coastal and mountainous regions. ID 2966

Nidularium(need-ew-LAH-ree-um) innocentii(in-o-SENT-ee-eye)

Bromeliaceae(bro-mee-lee-AY-see-ee)