Wittrockia

Wittrockia is a genus of plants in the family Bromeliaceae, subfamily Bromelioideae.

The genus name is for Veit Brecher Wittrock, a Swedish botanist (1839-1914).

These plants are native to Central America and South America. Many species are endemic to the Atlantic Forest biome (Mata Atlantica Brasileira), located in southeastern Brazil.

Description
Wittrockia is large among bromeliad genera, producing long, glossy leaves armed with sharp spines. Forming rosettes over 1 meter in diameter, the foliage may contain various colors of spots and banding, depending on species.

Their inflorescence blooms deep in the vase where the plant catches water.

Species

 * Wittrockia cyathiformis (Vellozo) Leme
 * Wittrockia flavipetala (Wand.) Leme & H.Luther
 * Wittrockia gigantea (Baker) Leme
 * Wittrockia paulistana Leme
 * Wittrockia spiralipetala Leme
 * Wittrockia superba Lindman
 * Wittrockia tenuisepala (Leme) Leme

Cultivation
Wittrockia species are adaptable to varying climates and light exposure. Their attractive foliage has made them popular in cultivation as an ornamental plant.