Bromeliads

**Bromeliads** **Genera: //Aechmia, Ananas//,** // **Guzmania, Protea, Tillandsia** //
 * __ Bromeliaceae __**

**Bromeliaceae** (the **bromeliads**) is a family of monocot flowering plants of around 2,400 species native mainly to the tropical Americas, with a few species found in the American subtropics and one in tropical west Africa.[1] The family includes both epiphytes, such as Spanish moss (//Tillandsia usneoides//), and terrestrial species, such as the pineapple (//Ananas comosus//).  Other members resemble aloes or yuccas while still others look like green, leafy grasses.  Many bromeliads are able to store water in a "tank" formed by their tightly-overlapping leaf//.// The family contains over 3000 described species in approximately 56 genera. In general they are inexpensive, easy to grow, require very little care, and reward the grower with brilliant, long lasting blooms and ornamental foliage. They come in a wide range of sizes from tiny miniatures to giants. They can be grown indoors in cooler climates and can also be used outdoors where temperatures stay above freezing.