Bromeliads originate from tropical rain forests, and are epiphytes, meaning that they grow above the ground on trees. Bromeliads have long thin leaves which originate from a central core. The leaves form a cup, which should be filled with water. Bromeliads also have a colorful flower which forms from the center of the plant. The original plant will usually die after flowering, but it will produce new offshoots which can be propagated.