Tillandsia brachycaulos aka Tree Orchid
Taxonomy
Common names
Tree OrchidHow to care for Tree Orchid
Difficulty
Tree Orchid requires a bit more attention and knowledge to thrive, making it a suitable plant for those with some gardening experience.
Water
Tree Orchid does best in dry soil and should only be watered sparingly.
Soil
When it comes to the Tree Orchid, a potting soil that is too moist can cause problems. For this reason, it's important to use a soil mix that is well-draining and does not retain too much moisture. A soil that includes perlite or vermiculite for drainage and organic matter for nutrition is ideal. You can achieve this by simply adding a few scoops of perlite to your store-bought cactus soil.
Lighting
To ensure optimal growth, the Tree Orchid prefers bright diffused light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.
Dormancy
During the cold period, it is common for Tree Orchid to go dormant and their growth may slow down, so waterings should be spaced out more during this period.
Toxicity
Ploi's records do not contain confirmed information on the toxicity of this particular plant. In the event of accidental ingestion of plant material with questionable toxicity by you, a family member, or a pet, it is always a good idea to consult a healthcare professional.
Humidity
Tree Orchid enjoys dry environments, but misting the plant or providing extra humidity can create an environment for harmful fungi to thrive on the leaves.
Fertilizer
The growth of Tree Orchid is not rapid and it doesn't necessitate any extra fertilization. By replacing its potting soil once a year, it should receive ample nutrition. It is important to note that plants obtain their energy from the sun's rays, not from fertilizers.
Region of origin
Tree Orchid’s native range is the Americas.
More info:
Wikipedia