This large South American native is priced more for its unusual and dramatic foliage than its inflorescence. The leaves are spineless and glossy with vivid green contrasts, and can spread to a meter across. The inflorescence can grow to over a metre, and comprises of cream-colored flowers.

Purplish black in bright light, this large bromeliad spans a meter when mature. Its meter long spike has black bracts bearing off-white flowers, creating vivid contrasts and making it a great accent plant. Prefers semi-shade to dappled bright light; the amount of light influences foliage colour.