Generally, Aechmeas form large urn shapes or tubular structures that hold reservoirs of water, many are epiphytes that can adapt to growing in the ground, but they need a free draining soil. The leaves are often heavily marked with silver trichinas and they produce colorful blooms that are long lasting. They are found across a huge range of habitats in central and south America. Many are hardy plants and many can withstand cooler temperatures and dryer conditions. Some have spectacular flowers which can last for months. If the flowers are pollinated the plant often forms colourful berries which contain an sticky jelly that is edible.

Plants are marked NZ for those collected in New Zealand - or Aust - for the new plants collected since coming to Australia