Tillandsia Houston - The Striking Pink & Green Air Plant

The Striking Pink & Green Air Plant: A Vibrant Hybrid

Tillandsia Houston is a captivating air plant hybrid that boasts vibrant pink and green foliage, making it a standout addition to any plant collection. This unique hybrid is a cross between Tillandsia stricta and Tillandsia recurvifolia and is prized for its ease of care and striking appearance.

Distinctive Features

• Leaves: Slender, tapering leaves that range in colour from vibrant pink to soft green. The leaves are covered in fine trichomes, giving them a slightly fuzzy texture which helps them to trap moisture and nutrients from the air.
• Flowers: Produces a tall, vibrant pink inflorescence with tubular purple flowers. The flowers are a beautiful contrast to the foliage and add to the overall appeal of this Tillandsia.
• Growth Habit: This Tillandsia has a rosette growth habit, forming a captivating clump of leaves. 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 delicate leaves. An east-facing windowsill is often ideal.
• 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. This is important to prevent rot.
• Air Circulation: Good air circulation is crucial for Tillandsias. Ensure that the plant is not placed in a stagnant or enclosed environment. A light breeze or a position near a fan can be beneficial.
• Temperature: Maintain warm temperatures between 15-29°C (59-85°F) for optimal growth. Avoid exposing this tropical gem to cold draughts or frost.
• Fertiliser: Use a diluted bromeliad or orchid fertiliser once a month during the growing season (spring and summer). This will help to encourage healthy growth and flowering.
• Mounting: Tillandsia Houston 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. Be sure to choose a mount that allows for good air circulation around the plant.

Additional Notes

• Tillandsia Houston is a relatively fast-growing air plant and with proper care, you can expect to enjoy its vibrant colours and unique form for years to come.
• This Tillandsia can be propagated through offsets, also known as pups, which grow from the base of the mother plant. These can be carefully separated and mounted to create new plants.
• With proper care, your Tillandsia Houston will thrive and bring a touch of the exotic to your home. Enjoy its unique beauty and the fascinating world of air plants!