Tillandsia caput-medusae aka Octopus Plant

Taxonomy

Tillandsia caput-medusae, also known as the octopus plant or medusa's head, is a species of flowering plant in the bromeliad family, Bromeliaceae. This epiphytic plant is native to Central America and Mexico and is commonly cultivated in greenhouses. It is a perennial with evergreen, twisted, and incurved leaves that form a bulb-like base. The leaves, which are covered in fine gray hairs, can reach up to 25 cm in length. The plant produces pups after blooming, typical of most Tillandsia species. In spring to early summer, Tillandsia caput-medusae blooms with unbranched or digitate red inflorescences. The bright violet flowers, about 3.2 cm long, have exerted stamens. Unlike many indoor plants, this air plant obtains most of its nutrients and water from the air rather than through its small roots. Scales or trichomes on the leaves absorb water from humid air and air-borne nutrients. Overall, Tillandsia caput-medusae is a unique and popular member of the Tillandsia genus.

Common names

Octopus Plant

How to care for Octopus Plant

Difficulty

Octopus Plant requires a bit more attention and knowledge to thrive, making it a suitable plant for those with some gardening experience.

Water

Octopus Plant does best in dry soil and should only be watered sparingly.

Soil

The Octopus Plant is delicate when it comes to soil that is too damp, therefore, it is crucial to select a potting soil that has efficient drainage and doesn't hold an excessive amount of moisture. An ideal soil should consist of a substantial amount of perlite or vermiculite for proper drainage and some organic matter for nutrition. Mixing a few handfuls of perlite with commercially available cactus soil should produce the desired result.

Lighting

To ensure optimal growth, the Octopus Plant 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 Octopus Plant to go dormant and their growth may slow down, so waterings should be spaced out more during this period.

Cat approves this plant

Toxicity

Octopus Plant is not known to cause harm to humans or pets.

Humidity

Octopus Plant thrives in dry environments, but if you provide extra humidity or mist your plant, the lingering water on its leaves could create an ideal environment for certain fungal diseases.

Fertilizer

The growth of Octopus Plant is gradual and it doesn't necessitate any additional fertilizers. Replacing the soil in its pot once a year should suffice to provide the plant with sufficient nutrition. It's important to keep in mind that plants derive their energy from the sun's rays, not fertilizers.

Region of origin

Octopus Plant’s native range is the Americas.

Flower

If you provide your Octopus Plant with adequate amounts of sunlight and water, it will bloom.


More info:
Wikipedia