Tillandsia flexuosa (Suriname Form)

Tillandsia flexuosa (Suriname Form) is a geographically distinct variation of the widespread species 'Tillandsia flexuosa', found throughout Central America, northern South America, and the Caribbean. The Suriname form typically inhabits coastal scrub, mangroves, and open woodland edges, often exposed to full sun and salty breezes. This form is notable for its large size, rigid upright leaves, and strikingly tall inflorescence with pink to red bracts and pale violet tubular flowers. The species name ‘flexuosa’ refers to the slightly zig-zagged flowering spike. It thrives in bright, dry conditions and is well-adapted to challenging environments.

Distinctive features:

• Large rosette with stiff, arching leaves in a grey-green tone
• Inflorescence is tall and branched, with reddish bracts and pale violet flowers
• Leaves are coated in dense trichomes for moisture capture in dry coastal air
• Suriname form is especially sun-hardy and tolerant of saline conditions
• Flower spike displays a characteristic zig-zag pattern

Care Tips:

• Light: Requires strong light to full sun; ideal for bright windows or outdoor growing
• Water: Soak or heavily mist 2–3 times per week; dry completely within 4 hours
• Humidity: Tolerates low humidity; benefits from good air circulation
• Media: Mount securely to wood, bark, or rock; no soil required
• Temperature: Thrives in 18–32°C; protect from frost
• Fertiliser: Feed monthly with diluted tillandsia fertiliser during warm months

Additional Notes:

• Grows considerably larger than many other air plants
• Excellent choice for outdoor growing in coastal or subtropical regions
• Suriname form is particularly resilient and drought-tolerant
• Not toxic to pets