Family: Bromeliaceae
Alcantarea glaziouana is one of the largest bromeliads in the world, known for its striking appearance. It forms a broad, funnel-shaped rosette with approximately 50 leaves that can grow 65–100 cm long and 9–14 cm wide. The leaves are green with narrow white crossbands on the inner surfaces. The plant produces a tall, showy inflorescence that can reach up to 170 cm in height, resembling an ornate chandelier. The flowers are fragrant, white, and arranged in a paniculate, bipinnate structure.
This species is endemic to Brazil, specifically found in the rocky cliffs near Rio de Janeiro. It thrives in lithophytic habitats, growing on rocks with minimal organic matter, often near sea level. The plant creates its own microhabitat by accumulating humus, mosses, and lichens around its roots.
This bromeliad is highly valued for its ornamental appeal and is commonly grown in gardens or containers. It is not currently reported to be naturalized or invasive anywhere in the world.
High Risk Traits:
- Grows and could potentially spread in regions with tropical climates
- Tolerates many soil types (not limited by substrate)
- Reproduces by seed and asexually via vegetative clonal growth.
- Seeds dispersed by wind and through intentional cultivation
Low Risk Traits:
- No reports of invasive or negative impacts where cultivated
- Unarmed (no spines, thorns, or burrs)
- Not reported to be toxic
- Grows best in high light environments (dense shade may inhibit spread)
- Reaches reproductive maturity after 9-15 years from seed
