Bromeliads

Bromeliads covers a broad species list of about 3,700 plants identified as the Bromeliaceae family that are almost exclusive to the tropical and subtropical Americas.  There is one species in the Family, Pitcairnia feliciana, that is native to tropical west Africa, otherwise they are believed to have evolved in the upper altitude Andes mountains.

Bromeliads inhabit very diverse growing conditions and regions.  There are terrestrial, hemi epiphytic, epiphytic, aerophytes and even virtual tree bromeliads.  Some Bromeliads inhabit in hot, arid conditions and others in tropical rainforests.  

Aside from being diverse, Bromeliads are often associated with colorful leaves, though often with some measure of thorns, brilliantly colored flowers and a rigid hardiness.