Tillandsia ionantha var. vanhyningii

Tillandsia ionantha var. vanhyningii is a distinctive form of the well-known T. ionantha, native to Oaxaca, Mexico. Unlike the typical ionantha, which forms tight, singular rosettes, this variety grows caulescently, producing a visible stem along which multiple rosettes develop over time. It grows on exposed cliffs and limestone outcrops in bright, dry environments. The leaves are short, silvery-green, and densely trichomed, blushing red to pink near flowering. Violet tubular flowers emerge from the terminal rosettes, and with age, the plant can form a dramatic, layered column of stacked growth.

Distinctive features:

• Caulescent growth with multiple rosettes along a visible stem
• Leaves are densely trichomed, silvery, and curve outward from the stem
• Blushes red or pink at the tips during bloom
• Produces violet tubular flowers from terminal rosettes
• Endemic to limestone cliffs in Oaxaca, Mexico

Care Tips:

• Light: Prefers bright, filtered light; tolerates some direct morning sun
• Water: Mist 2–3 times weekly or soak occasionally; allow full drying after watering
• Humidity: Performs well in moderate humidity with good air circulation
• Media: Mount on cork, stone, or driftwood to support vertical growth
• Temperature: Best grown in 16–30°C; protect from cold and frost
• Fertiliser: Use diluted tillandsia fertiliser monthly during active growth

Additional Notes:

• Highly sought after for its unusual stacked appearance
• Excellent for vertical or suspended displays to highlight its form
• Very drought-tolerant due to dense trichomes and compact growth
• Not toxic to pets