About
An epiphytic bromeliad forming a rosette of pointed, linear leaves to 50cm long. In summer it produces a stiff, candelabra-like flowerspike composed of numerous green, then red papery bracts from which emerge tiny yellow flowers.
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
SunlightPartial shade
Soil pHAcid, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH1C
Plant details
Plant typeHouseplants
HabitTufted
FoliageEvergreen
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesHouseplants
Native toN. & W. Mexico
Care notes
CultivationUnder glass, grow epiphytically, or in pots of free-draining compost composed of equal parts of orchid compost, perlite and coir fibre. Position in bright, indirect light, with moderate to high humidity. From late spring to late summer water moderately and apply a balanced foliar feed monthly. Water sparingly in winter. See Air plants cultivation
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by seed sown at 27°C in spring, onto bundles of conifer twigs and sphagnum moss; mist daily. Detach offsets in spring
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free