Its name was chosen in honor of Prince von Salm-Dyck, who was passionate about botany. They are considered as the most ancient genus of the Bromeliaceae family, By growing spontaneously in very arid areas, they have strongly strengthened, becoming the only representatives of this family to survive at fairly low temperatures. They can also resist without water for long periods, by putting themselves in a state of dormancy from which they will wake up when they will receive water again. They are very characteristic and well recognizable plants: their long rigid leaves have spiny tips, plus they develop a rosette-like habit; the aspect of the foliage is also very varied - from smooth to serrated, with solid or spotted and striped colors. These plants are so ornamental and different from each other, that there will definitely fit your tastes! It likes an exposure to full sun in rather airy locations. It is preferable to keep it at mild temperatures and never below 10 °C, for this reason it is recommended to shelter it during the winter period. Water moderately but only when the soil is completely dry. It is enough to water the plant once a week in spring and summer and suspend watering completely in autumn and winter. The best soil is a well draining one, for example formed by a mixture of peat and pumice so that the water does not stagnate. They do not need frequent fertilization, it is sufficient to dilute the fertilizer with watering once a year.