Tillandsia tectorum
Taxonomy
Tillandsia tectorum, a species of flowering plant in the genus Tillandsia, is native to Peru and Ecuador. This evergreen, epiphytic perennial can grow up to 30cm tall and features narrow, linear grey-silver leaves covered with fuzzy white hairs, reaching lengths of up to 25cm. In spring and summer, small tubular purple-violet flowers emerge from pinkish-purple bracts. Found in large populations on Andean cliff faces and outcroppings, Tillandsia tectorum is a rare air plant. Its unique appearance, with large trichomes and a whimsical form, has made it popular among both novices and enthusiasts of air plants. The plant's adaptation to the extreme conditions of its native Andean climate includes the development of large trichomes to reflect strong solar radiation, as well as the ability to catch nutrients blown in the wind in a low-nutrient environment. With varying sizes due to the variability of climate and elevation in its native range, Tillandsia tectorum displays gentle pink flowers with tiny violet bracts, and during the rainy season, it endures bursts of heavy rain.
How to care for Tillandsia tectorum
Difficulty
If you're looking for a plant that offers a moderate level of challenge, Tillandsia tectorum is a great choice to test your gardening skills.
Water
Tillandsia tectorum does best in dry soil and should only be watered sparingly.
Soil
To keep your Tillandsia tectorum healthy, it's important to use a potting soil that won't retain too much moisture. A soil that drains well and contains perlite or vermiculite for drainage and some organic matter for nutrition is ideal. Adding a few handfuls of perlite to regular cactus soil from the store is an easy way to create this type of soil mix.
Lighting
To ensure optimal growth, the Tillandsia tectorum prefers bright indirect 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 Tillandsia tectorum to go dormant, resulting in a slowdown of growth. To accommodate this, waterings should be spaced out more.
Toxicity
There is no verified data on the toxicity of this plant in the records of Ploi. If any person, including yourself, a family member, or a pet, consume plant material with an uncertain toxicity level, it is advisable to seek the advice of a healthcare expert.
Humidity
Tillandsia tectorum 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 Tillandsia tectorum is characterized by its slow growth and doesn't need fertilization in addition to its potting soil. By renewing the soil in its pot once a year, it should have enough nutrition. Remember, plants get their energy from sunlight, not from any fertilizers.
Region of origin
Tillandsia tectorum’s native range is the Americas.
More info:
Wikipedia
