Tillandsia aff. utriculata - The Giant Air Plant

Tillandsia aff. utriculata refers to a form that shows close affinity to the species Tillandsia utriculata but may differ morphologically or regionally, often pending formal taxonomic clarification. Native to parts of the Caribbean, Central America, and the southern United States, plants in this complex typically grow in warm, open habitats including pine rocklands and tropical hammocks. This large, tank-forming species develops an upright rosette of broad, grey-green leaves and can produce a towering inflorescence that, in some cases, exceeds one metre in height. The spike is often branched and bears pale green to yellow bracts with purple to lavender tubular flowers. These forms are ecologically significant as water reservoirs in their native habitats.

Distinctive features:

• Large, upright rosette with broad, arching leaves
• Tank-forming habit, capable of holding water at the base
• Tall, branched inflorescence with pale bracts and tubular purple flowers
• Leaves densely trichomed and grey-green in appearance
• Often exceeds 50–80 cm in height or more when in flower

Care Tips:

• Light: Requires bright light to full sun; thrives in open, airy spaces
• Water: Fill central tank with clean water and flush periodically; mist leaves in dry climates
• Humidity: Prefers moderate to high humidity with good air circulation
• Media: Can be grown mounted or supported in large baskets; avoid enclosed containers
• Temperature: Ideal range is 18–32°C; protect from frost and cold winds
• Fertiliser: Apply diluted bromeliad fertiliser monthly to tank or leaves during growth

Additional Notes:

• Highly valued for its scale and ecological role in native environments
• Tank may attract frogs, insects, or small wildlife in outdoor conditions
• Specimens labelled as aff. utriculata may represent distinct localised forms
• Not toxic to pets