Tillandsia cyanea 'Pink Quill' - The Showy Air Plant

The Showy Air Plant: A Vibrant Epiphyte

Tillandsia cyanea 'Pink Quill' is a truly spectacular air plant that commands attention with its vibrant pink inflorescence and captivating blue flowers. This eye-catching epiphyte is native to Ecuador and is a prized addition to any plant collection.

Distinctive Features

• Leaves: Narrow, triangular leaves that form a rosette. The leaves are typically 10-20cm long (approximately 4-8 inches) and have a vibrant green colour.
• Inflorescence: Produces a striking, paddle-shaped pink inflorescence that can last for several weeks. The inflorescence is composed of overlapping bracts from which the flowers emerge.
• Flowers: Delicate, tubular blue flowers that emerge from the pink inflorescence. The flowers are typically 2-3cm long (approximately 1 inch) and have a sweet fragrance.
• Growth Habit: This Tillandsia has a rosette growth habit, meaning the leaves radiate outwards from a central point. It is an epiphyte, which means it naturally grows on trees and other surfaces, absorbing moisture and nutrients from the air and rain.

Care Tips

• Light: Bright, indirect light is best. Avoid harsh direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves.
• Water: Mist the plant thoroughly 2-3 times a week, ensuring that excess water drains away. Alternatively, you can soak the plant in a bowl of water for 20-30 minutes once a week. Allow the plant to dry completely before returning it to its display location.
• Air Circulation: Good air circulation is crucial for Tillandsias. Ensure that the plant is not placed in a stagnant or enclosed environment.
• Temperature: Maintain warm temperatures between 15-29°C (59-85°F) for optimal growth.
• Fertiliser: Use a diluted bromeliad or orchid fertiliser once a month during the growing season (spring and summer).
• Mounting: Tillandsia cyanea 'Pink Quill' can be mounted on various surfaces, such as driftwood, cork bark, or even decorative rocks. Use fishing line, wire, or glue to securely attach the plant to its mount.

Additional Notes

• Tillandsia cyanea 'Pink Quill' is a relatively fast-growing air plant and will typically bloom within a year or two of being propagated.
• This Tillandsia can be propagated through offsets, also known as pups, which grow from the base of the mother plant after flowering.
• With proper care, your Tillandsia cyanea 'Pink Quill' will reward you with its stunning inflorescence and captivating flowers.