One of the hardiest bromeliads that can withstand temperatures as low as -9c, however winter fleece protection is advised for sub zero conditions. Native to Brazil, Uruguay and Argentina this epiphyte grows best in free draining soil, partial shade in a sheltered location. In humid climates it will happily grow up trees or on roofs or is an excellent house plant. Beautiful blue flowers striped with green with yellow anthers surrounded with pink bracts in summer. Leathery lanceolate leaves are irregularly striped creamy yellow.