Large Tillandsia with spiral leaves!

This Tillandsia comes from the west coast of Mexico and has hard, spirally twisted leaves that give it an exotic appearance . It is somewhat reminiscent of Tillandsia caput medusae but has a taller growth habit and even more twisted leaves. It usually grows alone with only a few side shoots. Its flowers are pink and sit on long, red flower stalks.

Botanical description.

This species is native to western Mexico. It is an epiphyte (grows on other plants) and grows primarily in seasonally dry tropical areas.

Care.

Tillandsias are mainly epiphytes, meaning they grow as non-parasitic plants on trees and shrubs. Their roots do not penetrate the host plant but are used only for attachment. Tillandsias can continue to grow normally even without roots and do not necessarily need to be attached to another plant to survive. They can be grown freely hanging or mounted on various substrates.

As a houseplant, tillandsias from dry areas are most suitable. They can and should be dry most of the time and need a lot of light. Tillandsias from humid environments are better suited for growing in a terrarium or grow box.

This species comes from a dry region and thrives best in a location by a south or west window in direct sunlight. In summer it can also be grown outdoors. It should be sprayed liberally or given a quick dip every 3 to 5 days.

In nature, tillandsias get almost all of their nutrition from dust that falls with rain or is washed over them from their host plant. They can absorb both water and nutrients through their specialized leaves.

Appearance.

The leaves of tillandsias are often covered with modified hairs called trichomes. These appear as a more or less dense white fluff on the leaves. The trichomes act like small sponges and become transparent when filled with water. They help the plant stay moist longer and give it more time to absorb water and nutrients before it dries out again.