Bromeliad

Description:

The most common bromeliads (such as the Aechmea, Neoregelia, and Guzmania genus) grow in rosettes of relatively large, strappy leaves around a central cup. These leaves are often relatively thick and may have backward facing spines that are capable of giving you a sharp jab. The leaves arise from the center cup, which is designed to hold water. In nature, bromeliads' roots are adapted to clinging onto trees. The plant relies on rainfall and leaf litter to fill up the central cup with both water and ample organic material for food.

Habitat:

Bromeliads are native to the Neotropics. One species now thrives in western Africa, and is thought to have been introduced accidentally.