Eagle Eye Adventures

While there are significantly more Tillandsia, Hechtia, and Pitcairnia species in Mexico, there are still interesting bromeliads in the Bromelioideae subfamily (those with fleshy berries like the pineapple). These include species of Aechmea, Billbergia, Bromelia, and my favorite Ursulaea.

 

There are only two species of Billbergia (B. pallidiflora and B. viridiflora) and a handful more of Aechmea species.  The most common and widespread are Aechmea bracteata (variety pacifica here on the left) and Aechmea mexicana.

 

Plants in the genus Bromelia are terrestrial and even more fierce than most Hechtias. Some of these species are used as fencing and fruit can be harvested to make drinks or sweet snacks.