Acanthostachys strobilacea (Pinecone Bromeliad)

Acanthostachys strobilacea (Pinecone Bromeliad) with thin green leaves and small orange flowers in a container
Acanthostachys strobilacea (Pinecone Bromeliad) with long green cascading foliage and orange flowers in a terracotta pot

Botanical name: Acanthostachys strobilacea

Common name: Pinecone Bromeliad

Family: Bromeliaceae

Subfamily: Bromelioideae

Origin: Brazil, Paraguay, Argentina

USDA Plant Hardiness Map

USDA Zone: 9-10

Small plant 2-5 ftPlant form: Small
Plant mature sizeMature height: 2-5 ft
Semi-shadeSun exposure: Semi-shade
Cold toleranceCold tolerance: Frost sensitive. Protect from freezing.
Watering: Moderate. Water when top soil feels dryEpiphyte plantWatering: Moderate; epiphyte. Needs light, frequent misting or soaking to stay hydrated.
Yellow, orange flowersFlower color: Yellow, orange
Suitable forSuitable for: Outdoors in the suitable USDA zone; small gardens, containers, and indoor growing
Thorny or spinyThorns: Thorny or spiny

Native to Brazil, Paraguay, and Argentina, Acanthostachys strobilacea (Pinecone Bromeliad) is a small shrub that grows to reach 2-5ft in height. This attractive epiphyte requires a moderate amount of water and semi-shade to grow and thrive, making it the perfect plant for a hanging basket in a sunny or partially-shaded location. Its leaves are a deep green with gray scurf and spines, while its flowers range in color from yellow to orange.

Despite its exotic appearance, Acanthostachys strobilacea is low-maintenance, making it ideal for gardeners who don't have much time to spare on tending to their plants. In addition, it is drought-tolerant and can even thrive in xeriscaped environments.

For those who live in USDA Zone 9-11, Acanthostachys strobilacea is well-suited for growing in containers. The plant can be successfully grown in cold regions as long as its soil is kept moist. In cooler climates, the plant should be moved to a sheltered area during the winter months to ensure the soil does not become too cold and wet, as this could damage the roots. Furthermore, when growing in a pot, it is important to ensure the pot is well-drained and to water the plant regularly and deeply.

Overall, Acanthostachys strobilacea is a beautiful and exotic plant that is low-maintenance and drought-tolerant, making it a great addition to any sunny or partially-shaded garden. With the right care, it can thrive in its environment and bring a unique beauty to any garden.


Acanthostachys strobilacea (Pinecone Bromeliad) green plant with orange flowers and long narrow arching stems
Acanthostachys strobilacea (Pinecone Bromeliad) with long green arching stems and small vibrant orange colored flowers
Acanthostachys strobilacea (Pinecone Bromeliad) red orange flower close up between thin green leaves
Acanthostachys strobilacea (Pinecone Bromeliad) with a vibrant orange flower nestled among long slender green leaves.
Acanthostachys strobilacea (Pinecone Bromeliad) orange flower on slender green leaves in brown pot
Acanthostachys strobilacea (Pinecone Bromeliad) orange flower spikes growing from slender green arching leaves in pot
Acanthostachys strobilacea (Pinecone Bromeliad) red orange flower close up among long slender green leaves
Acanthostachys strobilacea (Pinecone Bromeliad) with a vibrant red and orange flower cluster amidst long foliage


Link to this plant:
https://toptropicals.com/catalog/uid/acanthostachys_strobilacea.htm
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