This species is endemic to the Atlantic Forest ecoregion of southeastern Brazil.

It can be found growing on trees in virgin forests near Serra do Mar.

These leaves have lightly serrated edges and are tipped by a sharp spine.

The inflorescence bears rosy red bracts and violet or white petals.

[1] It is a semi-cold hardy bromeliad that can tolerate temperatures down to 25 °F for a few hours.