Tillandsia stricta 'Silver' - The Silver Air Plant

The Silver Air Plant: A Dazzling Epiphyte

Tillandsia stricta 'Silver' is a truly captivating air plant cultivar that stands out for its silvery foliage and vibrant blooms. This eye-catching epiphyte is native to South America and is a wonderful addition to any plant collection.

Distinctive Features

• Leaves: Slender, silvery-green leaves that are typically 10-15cm long (approximately 4-6 inches). The leaves are covered in fine trichomes, giving them a velvety texture that shimmers in the light.
• Flowers: Produces a stunning inflorescence with vibrant pink or red bracts and delicate purple or blue flowers. The flowers are tubular in shape and emerge from the centre of the plant, creating a striking contrast with the silvery foliage.
• Growth Habit: This Tillandsia has a rosette growth habit, forming a dense 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 stricta 'Silver' 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 stricta 'Silver' is a relatively fast-growing air plant and with proper care, you can expect to enjoy its vibrant blooms regularly.
• 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 stricta 'Silver' will thrive and bring a touch of the exotic to your home. Enjoy its unique beauty and the fascinating world of air plants!