Alcantarea imperialis, commonly known as Imperial Bromeliad, is a large terrestrial bromeliad native to the rocky slopes of the Serra dos Órgãos in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. This species is part of the Atlantic Forest biome, where it thrives in high-altitude, open areas that are often exposed to intense sunlight and periods of drought. It is a slow-growing plant that can take up to 40 years to reach maturity and produce its spectacular inflorescence, which is a towering spike of red flowers that can reach up to 10 feet tall. The leathery leaves of the Imperial Bromeliad can grow up to 5 feet long, forming a dramatic rosette that is capable of holding up to 30 liters of rainwater in its central tank.

The Imperial Bromeliad is highly valued in cultivation for its striking appearance and its ability to withstand dry conditions and full sunlight. It is often used as a focal point in tropical and subtropical gardens, and its water-holding tank provides a habitat for small aquatic organisms. In cultivation, it requires well-draining soil and can be grown in containers or as a landscape specimen. While it is relatively low-maintenance, it is susceptible to root rot if overwatered or planted in poorly draining soils. Due to its size and the length of time it takes to flower, it is best suited for larger spaces where it can be allowed to grow without constraints.CC BY-SA 4.0