Tillandsia ionantha - The Blushing Air Plant

Tillandsia ionantha is a small species native to Central America and Mexico, where it grows in semi-arid regions, tropical forests, and occasionally on exposed cliffs. It forms a compact rosette of narrow leaves covered in fine trichomes. During its flowering cycle, the inner leaves often blush red or orange, followed by the emergence of violet tubular flowers. This species is highly variable, with numerous regional forms differing in size, leaf texture, and intensity of colour change.

Distinctive features:

• Typically grows 4–8 cm in height and width
• Inner leaves turn red or orange before flowering
• Produces short violet tubular flowers
• Dense trichomes give a silvery appearance in dry conditions
• Found across a wide range of elevations and climates

Care Tips:

• Light: Bright filtered light or partial sun is ideal
• Water: Rinse or soak 2–4 times per week, depending on humidity
• Humidity: Prefers 50–70% relative humidity
• Media: Grows well mounted or placed in an open terrarium
• Temperature: Tolerates 10–30°C; protect from frost
• Fertiliser: Apply diluted bromeliad fertiliser once a month

Additional Notes

• One of the most widely cultivated air plants
• Produces multiple offsets after flowering
• Non-toxic to pets