Silver Vase Plant Aechmea fasciata
ABOUT
Aechmea fasciata, more commonly known as the silver vase plant or urn plant, is a striking, evergreen perennial that is widely appreciated for its ornamental qualities. The appearance of the silver vase plant is characterized by a rosette of broad, arching leaves that are a deep green and glossy, with silver-gray horizontal bands that give it a banded appearance. This banding pattern creates a striking contrast and adds to its decorative nature. At the center of the rosette, the silver vase plant produces a stunning flower stalk. The true flowers are small and blue, but they are surrounded by large pink bracts, which are modified leaves that look like petals, creating an impressive display that resembles an elongated cone or vase, hence its common name. These bracts retain their color for an extended period, often several months, before fading. The leaves are leathery to the touch and come to a point at their ends, with the edges being slightly serrated which may feel sharp when handled. The urn plant gets its other common name 'urn' because the rosette of leaves can hold water, effectively creating a reservoir, which in the wild helps the plant to survive in its native habitats. The overall appearance of the silver vase plant is one of lush, tropical beauty, and it is a popular choice for adding an exotic flair to indoor spaces.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Bromeliaceae
Synonyms
Silver Vase, Urn Plant, Urn Bromeliad, Aechmea
Common names
Aechmea rhodocyanea, Billbergia fasciata, Billbergia rhodocyanea, Hoplophytum fasciatum, Lamprococcus fasciatus, Platyaechmea fasciata, Quesnelia rutenbergiana, Tillandsia fasciata.
ToxicityTo humans
Silver Vase Plant is not considered toxic to humans. Ingestion of the Silver Vase Plant typically does not lead to poisoning or adverse reactions. However, it is always advisable to keep plants out of the reach of small children who might chew on them, as individual reactions to plant materials can vary, and to prevent potential choking hazards.
To pets
Silver Vase Plant is generally considered non-toxic to pets such as cats and dogs. Ingestion of parts of the Silver Vase Plant should not result in poisoning or severe health issues in pets. However, it is still recommended to prevent pets from chewing on plants, as doing so might cause gastrointestinal irritation or discomfort due to the fibrous nature of the plant material, and individual animals might have sensitivities or allergic reactions.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Variegated
Flower color
Pink
Height
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Spread
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Plant type
Bromeliad
Hardiness zones
10
Native area
Brazil
Benefits
General Benefits- Decorative Appeal: Silver Vase Plant has striking urn-shaped rosettes and a large pink flower bract that adds a tropical aesthetic to any interior.
- Low Maintenance: This plant is relatively easy to care for, requiring minimal watering and no extensive pruning or grooming.
- Drought Tolerant: Being a bromeliad, it's adapted to withstand periods of drought, making it suitable for less attentive gardeners.
- Long-Lasting Blooms: The Silver Vase Plant has a lengthy blooming period, with the flower bract maintaining its color for several weeks or even months.
- Improves Humidity: Like other bromeliads, it can help maintain a beneficial level of humidity in dry indoor environments through its natural transpiration process.
- Non-Toxic: It is safe for homes with pets and children, as it is not known to be toxic when ingested.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Aechmea fasciata, also known as the Silver Vase or Urn Plant, can be used as a natural pest repellent when placed in a greenhouse because some pests are deterred by its tough foliage.
- The plant's unique bracts can serve as a water reservoir for small species of frogs and other humidity-loving creatures in terrarium settings.
- In its native habitat, the Aechmea fasciata can be used as an emergency water source, as its central tank often collects and stores water.
- The stiff leaves of the Silver Vase can be woven into small, decorative items, such as coasters or trivets, by skilled artisans.
- Due to its striking appearance, the Silver Vase is often used in floral arrangements and as a long-lasting centerpiece for events and weddings.
- When dried, parts of the plant can be used in crafting, for instance to create intricate textures in papermaking.
- The Silver Vase plant is utilized in education for botanical studies, teaching about epiphytic plants and their adaptations to tropical environments.
- Children can use the sturdy leaves of the Aechmea fasciata to practice painting or stenciling, as they hold up well to various art mediums.
- The water collected by the Silver Vase plant's tank can be used experimentally in schools to demonstrate water filtration and the concept of microhabitats.
- Photographers and artists may use the Aechmea fasciata as a living prop to study interplay of light and shadow, due to its interesting structure and patterns.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Urn Plant is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Urn Plant is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Protection: The Aechmea fasciata, commonly known as the Silver Vase Plant, has a tough exterior and sharp edges, symbolizing defense and protection.
- Endurance and Toughness: This plant is known for its resilience and ability to withstand harsh conditions, making it a symbol of endurance and toughness.
- Beauty: With its striking pink flower that lasts for an extended period, the Silver Vase Plant is often related to enduring beauty and grace.
- Hospitality: The Silver Vase Plant's unique form and welcoming flower embody a sense of hospitality and warmth.
WaterUrn Plant (Aechmea fasciata) should be watered when the top inch of the soil feels dry, approximately every week, although this may vary depending on environmental conditions. It's important to water it thoroughly, ensuring that water runs freely from the drainage holes, which might total around 16-32 ounces for a standard pot size. Additionally, keeping the central vase or urn of the plant filled with water is crucial, but it should be refreshed with clean water every few weeks to prevent stagnation and bacterial growth.
LightUrn Plant prefers bright, indirect light and should be kept in a spot where it receives filtered sunlight, such as near a south-facing window with sheer curtains or an east/west-facing window. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves, so it's important to avoid placing it in a location where the sun's rays are too intense.
TemperatureUrn Plant thrives in temperatures between 60-80°F, which should be maintained throughout the year. It can tolerate brief periods down to 40°F but for optimal growth, one should aim to keep the temperature around 70°F. Keeping them away from cold drafts and extreme temperature fluctuations is essential for their well-being.
PruningUrn Plant generally requires minimal pruning. It involves removing dead or dying leaves to maintain the plant's appearance and prevent rot. After the flower has bloomed and died back, the flower stalk should be cut off to encourage new growth. Pruning is best done in the late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe Urn Plant prefers well-draining soil mix with good aeration, such as a mix of orchid bark, perlite, and peat moss. The ideal soil pH for Aechmea fasciata is slightly acidic to neutral, ranging from 5.5 to 7.0.
RepottingUrn Plants should be repotted every two to three years or when they outgrow their current pot. They do not need frequent repotting due to their slow growth rate.
Humidity & MistingUrn Plants thrive best in high humidity conditions, preferably around 60% or higher. They benefit from daily misting or a pebble tray with water beneath the pot to increase humidity.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light and ensure high humidity for Urn Plant.
Outdoor
Shelter Urn Plant from direct sun; ensure warmth and high humidity.
Hardiness zone
9-11 USDA
Life cycleThe life of an Aechmea fasciata, commonly known as Silver Vase or Urn Plant, begins with seed germination where the plant starts off as a tiny seed and, with adequate warmth and moisture, sprouts into a seedling. It then transitions to a vegetative growth stage, developing a basal rosette of broad, strap-like leaves that are silver-green with horizontal bands of dark green. As the plant matures, it produces a stunning central flower spike that can take months to fully develop; this spike, or inflorescence, is made up of pink bracts and small purple or violet flowers. Post flowering, the Silver Vase may produce offsets, also known as 'pups', around its base, which can be separated and grown as new plants once they reach a suitable size. Eventually, the main plant declines and dies after flowering, as it is monocarpic, meaning it flowers once and then completes its lifecycle. The pups then continue the cycle, growing into adult plants that will flower, reproduce and die in turn.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to Summer
The Aechmea fasciata, commonly known as the Silver Vase or Urn Plant, is typically propagated through offsets, also known as "pups." These pups form at the base of the mother plant after it has finished flowering. Once the pups have reached about one-third the size of the parent plant and have their own roots, usually at least a few inches long, they can be gently removed and potted separately. It's best to use a well-draining potting mix and a container with ample drainage holes. This propagation process is most successful when performed during the warmer months, as the pups root more efficiently in warm temperatures. Careful watering is necessary after potting to encourage growth while ensuring the young plant does not sit in overly moist soil, which can lead to rot.
