New to Bromeliads

OK, I'm not one to have many houseplants. In fact the only plant I had was a peace lily from my mother's funeral which is very easy to take care of--just water it when it starts to droop!

Anyway, could anyone tell me what this bromeliad is? I went to a greenhouse where the lady had a really hot greenhouse and there was this huge pot, nearly 2 feet across, and I asked her if she had any of them for sale and she said she could pot one up. So this is what I got for $5. I'm so enthralled with it and want to make sure I don't kill it. So please also tell me what kind of care it needs. Thanks a bunch!

Hi
Your Bromelaid is so pretty. I like the color have not seen that color often.
We grow them and enjoy them a lot but sorry I don't know einough to give you a name. We have one that looks like yours that has not bloomed yet. But many look alike.
I'm sure someone will be able to help you.
Good luck these are great plants to grow !

I don't recognize the species, but it's probably an Aechmea. If you have patience, go to
http://fcbs.org/index.html
...then to the "Photo index" and look through the Aechmea listings. It could be a hybrid.
There is good cultural information there too. Basically, Florida weather with Summer shade and you can't go too far wrong.
Dave.

looks a lot like my aechmea gamosepala or it could be one of its hybrids