Tillandsia ionantha 'Fuego'

Tillandsia ionantha 'Fuego' is a selected cultivar of the widespread T. ionantha, named for its ability to develop a deep red to orange flush during its flowering cycle. Native to Central America and Mexico, this compact species typically grows in bright, exposed conditions on trees and rocky surfaces. 'Fuego' retains the typical ionantha form—a tight rosette of thick, recurved leaves densely covered in trichomes—but stands out for its vivid leaf colouration under strong light. During bloom, it produces violet tubular flowers from the centre of the rosette.

Care Tips:

• Light: Prefers bright, filtered light or partial direct sun; strong light encourages colour
• Water: Mist 3–4 times per week or soak briefly; allow full drying between waterings
• Humidity: Moderate humidity with good airflow is ideal
• Media: Mount on cork, bark, or display in an open container
• Temperature: Thrives in 16–30°C; protect from frost
• Fertiliser: Use diluted tillandsia fertiliser monthly during active growth