Aechmea ‘Burning Bush’ (A. fulgens x A. ramosa)

Aechmea 'Burning Bush' is a registered hybrid created by Bullis in Florida (pre-1991, Reg. Doc. 2/2000). It is a cross of Aechmea fulgens and Aechmea ramosa—and it was named specifically to distinguish it from the standard commercially available fulgens × ramosa hybrid (known as 'Fulgo-Ramosa'). What sets 'Burning Bush' apart is the intensity of its bloom.

When it flowers, 'Burning Bush' produces an erect or leaning, red-stemmed branched inflorescence. The ovaries are a vivid scarlet red, and from them emerge flowers in a striking cornflower blue. Red and blue together on the same plant is a genuinely rare combination in the bromeliad world, and it is the reason this cultivar has remained in demand for decades.

The berries extend the display. After the flowers fade, the scarlet ovaries develop into small rounded berries that hold their color for months. The inflorescence remains decorative long after the bloom itself has passed—one of the longest-lasting displays in the genus.

The foliage does its part. 'Burning Bush' forms a large rosette to approximately 50 cm (20 inches) in diameter, built from arching, semi-glossy, all-green leaves. Unlike some Aechmeas that rely on foliage color for impact, this one keeps its leaves clean and green, letting the inflorescence do the talking. The rosette forms a central "tank" or reservoir that collects water, as is typical for the genus.

Caring for Your Plant:

Bright, filtered light is ideal. A position with dappled shade or very bright indirect light is best. It prefers moderate light levels—an eastern or western exposure works well indoors. Avoid direct noonday sun, which can burn the leaves. If brown sunburn spots appear, move the plant to a lower-light spot immediately. Too little light causes the plant to turn greener and leaves to become overly long.

Keep the central "cup" (tank) filled with fresh water. Flush the reservoir with fresh water regularly—weekly is ideal—to prevent stagnation, odor, and mosquito breeding. Water the potting mix when the top 1–2 inches are dry. The one rule: never let the pot sit in standing water.