Tillandsia ionantha 'Ron' Asian Form

Tillandsia ionantha 'Ron' (Asian Form) is a selected cultivar of Tillandsia ionantha, distinguished by its smooth, glossy foliage and compact, symmetrical growth. Unlike the more common fuzzy-leaved forms, 'Ron' features leaves with reduced trichome density, giving them a greenish sheen that blushes to an intense red or deep pink as it approaches bloom. This cultivar is especially popular in Asian collections and nurseries, valued for its refined texture and striking colour transition. Like all ionantha forms, it produces tubular violet flowers from the centre of the rosette.

Distinctive features:

• Glossy, green foliage with minimal surface trichomes
• Blushes to deep pink or crimson when in bloom
• Compact rosette form, typically 4–6 cm tall
• Produces violet flowers that emerge from the blushed centre
• Leaf texture and form differ from the typical silvery ionantha types

Care Tips:

• Light: Prefers bright, filtered light; blush colour improves with increased light
• Water: Mist 3–4 times weekly or soak briefly; allow to dry thoroughly
• Humidity: Performs well in moderate to high humidity with ventilation
• Media: Mount on bark or display in open containers; avoid closed terrariums
• Temperature: Ideal range is 16–30°C; avoid cold and frost
• Fertiliser: Use diluted tillandsia fertiliser monthly during active growth

Additional Notes:

• Highly decorative, especially when grown in groups or geometric displays
• Leaf texture and sheen are more pronounced than in typical ionantha forms
• Blushing may appear more vividly under high light and lower humidity
• Not toxic to pets