Tillandsia 'Houston'

Tillandsia 'Houston' is a cultivated hybrid between Tillandsia stricta and Tillandsia recurvifolia, valued for its elegant form and ornamental flowering. Originally registered by Paul T. Isley III, it is often confused with 'Cotton Candy', to which it is closely related. The plant features gracefully recurving silver-green leaves and produces a dense pink inflorescence topped with violet flowers. Its adaptability and forgiving nature make it a favourite among collectors and hobbyists alike.

Distinctive features:

• Hybrid of T. stricta x T. recurvifolia, producing soft, silvered foliage
• Inflorescence is a compact, rose-pink spike with multiple violet blooms
• Leaves are arching and covered in fine trichomes
• Forms symmetrical rosettes and produces offsets readily after flowering
• More tolerant of lower humidity than many other tillandsias

Care Tips:

• Light: Bright, filtered light is ideal; tolerates early morning sun
• Water: Mist 3–4 times weekly or soak for 20–30 minutes once per week
• Humidity: Moderate humidity (50–70%) is suitable; ensure airflow
• Media: Mount on driftwood, cork, or wire; no potting mix required
• Temperature: Performs best at 15–28°C; not frost-tolerant
• Fertiliser: Apply diluted bromeliad fertiliser monthly during active growth

Additional Notes:

• Well-suited to both indoor and sheltered outdoor environments
• Flowers last up to two weeks, with bracts remaining attractive for longer
• Often confused with similar hybrids like 'Cotton Candy', but tends to have slightly broader bracts
• Not toxic to pets