Racinaea is a genus of flowering plants in the family Bromeliaceae (order Bromeliales), placed within the subfamily Tillandsioideae. The genus is distributed across tropical regions of the Americas. Like other members of Tillandsioideae, Racinaea species are epiphytic bromeliads, typically growing on trees or rocky substrates in humid montane and cloud-forest environments. The genus was segregated from the broader bromeliad classification to recognise a distinct lineage within Tillandsioideae. It is a relatively small genus; currently around two to three species are recognised in major taxonomic databases. Notable members in cultivation include Racinaea fraseri and Racinaea filifolia.
Etymology
The genus name Racinaea honours Racine Foster, wife of the prominent bromeliad botanist Mulford B. Foster and co-founder of the Bromeliad Society International (BSI).
Distribution
Racinaea is native to tropical regions of the Americas, with its range centred in South and Central America where humid montane forests and cloud forests occur.
