This species is endemic to the State of Espírito Santo in eastern Brazil.

[1][2] A. racinae grows best in partial sun and does not tolerate freezing temperatures.

[3] Aechmea racinae is an epiphytic evergreen perennial, forming basal rosettes of strap-shaped leaves, with arching racemes of tubular red and yellow flowers that give way to berries.

It has gained the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit.

[4] Three varieties are accepted:[1] Numerous cultivars have been named, including[5]