{"product_id":"aechmea-pepita-elegant-flame-orange-bromeliad","title":"Aechmea ‘Pepita’ \/ ‘Elegant Flame’ - Orange Bromeliad","description":"\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eKnown for its vibrant, flaming orange flower spike, \u003ci\u003eAechmea ‘Pepita’\u003c\/i\u003e—commonly marketed as ‘Elegant Flame’—is a striking bromeliad that adds a tropical flair to any home. With its rosette of spiky, green leaves and long-lasting inflorescence, this plant is a low-maintenance beauty perfect for both beginners and seasoned plant lovers.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eScientific Name\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003ci\u003eAechmea ‘Pepita’\u003c\/i\u003e \/ ‘Elegant Flame’\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003ci\u003eAechmea ‘Pepita’\u003c\/i\u003e belongs to the Bromeliaceae family, native to tropical regions of the Americas. The cultivar ‘Pepita’ is specifically bred for its bright orange bracts and compact growth habit. The marketing name ‘Elegant Flame’ highlights its dramatic appearance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eCommon Name(s)\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003eOrange Bromeliad, Elegant Flame Bromeliad\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eOrigin\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003eHybrid cultivar derived from species native to Central and South America.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eLight\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003ePrefers bright, indirect light. It can tolerate lower light but may lose some vibrancy in its foliage and bracts. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eWater\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003eKeep the central cup or “tank” (formed by the rosette) filled with water, but refresh it weekly to prevent stagnation. Water the soil sparingly, allowing it to dry out between waterings.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eHumidity\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003eThrives in high humidity; mist regularly or place near a humidifier, especially during winter.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eSoil\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003eA well-draining potting mix designed for epiphytes is ideal. Orchid or bromeliad mix works well. Avoid heavy, moisture-retaining soils.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eFood\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003eFeed every 2–3 months during the growing season with a balanced, water-soluble fertiliser diluted to half strength. Apply directly to the central cup or soil.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eTemperature\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003ePrefers temperatures between 18–27°C. Avoid prolonged exposure to temperatures below 12°C.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003ePet-safe\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003eNon-toxic to cats and dogs, but the spiky leaves can cause mild irritation if touched or chewed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eSprouts Top Tips\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p3\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"Apple-tab-span\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e•\u003cspan class=\"Apple-tab-span\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eIf the flower bract starts to fade, don’t worry—this is normal after its bloom cycle. The plant may produce offsets (“pups”) at the base, which can be separated and potted when they reach about one-third the size of the parent plant.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p3\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"Apple-tab-span\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e•\u003cspan class=\"Apple-tab-span\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eKeep the leaves free from dust by wiping gently with a damp cloth.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p3\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"Apple-tab-span\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e•\u003cspan class=\"Apple-tab-span\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eAvoid tap water high in salts or fluoride; rainwater or distilled water is ideal for bromeliads.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eExtras\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003eBromeliads are epiphytic in their natural environment, often growing on trees. However, they adapt well to potted life when provided with the right mix and care.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eDid You Know?\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003eThe vibrant orange flower spike can last for several months, making \u003ci\u003eAechmea ‘Pepita’\u003c\/i\u003e a long-lasting statement piece. While the parent plant will eventually die after flowering, its pups will continue the legacy!\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Sprouts of Bristol","offers":[{"title":"12cm","offer_id":54837943304573,"sku":"4062895652371","price":14.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"15cm","offer_id":55894399648125,"sku":"5409537906471","price":18.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0490\/2774\/3905\/files\/aechmea-pepita-elegant-flame-orange-bromeliad-655186.jpg?v=1733118978","url":"https:\/\/sproutsofbristol.pro\/products\/aechmea-pepita-elegant-flame-orange-bromeliad","provider":"Sprouts of Bristol","version":"1.0","type":"link"}