About
An evergreen epiphytic perennial with rosettes of long, narrow green leaves to 35cm in length, marked with red at the base. Produces flattened spikes of pink bracts with vibrant blue flowers in spring or autumn.
About the genus
Tillandsia are evergreen perennials, often epiphytic, forming rosettes of leathery, linear or strap-shaped leaves, and tubular or funnel-shaped flowers which may be 2-ranked in spikes with conspicuous bracts, or solitary and inconspicuous
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH1C
Plant details
Plant typeConservatory Greenhouse, Houseplants
HabitClump forming
FoliageEvergreen
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesHouseplants
Care notes
CultivationPlants need no compost; they are often grown on wire or bark pieces for support. Grow under glass in bright but diffused light with good ventilation. From spring to autumn, mist daily with rainwater, or immerse in rainwater twice a week, draining well to ensure no water is sitting in the leaves. See the advice page on cultivating air plants for more details
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by seed, sown at 27°C (81°F) in spring, onto bundles of conifer twigs and sphagnum moss. Propagate by division, removing offsets in spring
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to aphids when flowering
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free