Native distribution and habitat: The plant is native to Mexico and Cuba, where it grows on exposed rocky cliffs, rock and tree roots where it gets full light at altitudes of 75 m -2,200 m.
Growth habit: T. capitata can form an open rosette 350 mm to 500 mm wide . When the plant begins to bloom the central leaves elongate to form a short, sturdy spike with the inflorescence in the centre. The growth habit is negative geotropic.
Foliage: The leaves are a gentle green gray, soft and channeled. In this red form, with good light, the central leaves turn a bright red colour.
Flowers: The bright tubular flowers have purple petals and vibrant yellow, exserted stamens.
Seed:
Pups:
Cultivation: The plant needs moderate care. Be careful to make sure there is good air circulation in winter and with hold water during cold periods. Dale W. Jenkins of the Sarasota Bromeliad Society suggests the species is hardy with survival and little or no damage at -3 ° c for several hours. 1
Availability: Sometimes available.
1 http://fcbs.org/articles/cold_sensitivity_of_bromeliads.htm
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