Family: Bromeliad
Sub-Family: Tillandsioideae:
Genus: Tillandsia
Sub-Genus:
Native distribution and habitat: A miniature Tillandsia from La Libertad and
the Maranon headwaters Peru, where it grows on rocks and occasionally as an
epiphyte. It is located in the district of La Libertad, Sanchez Carrión province, on
the rocks and vertical walls near the Valley of Chusgón river at 2,500 m above
sea level.
Growth habit: Similar to T. tectorum, but much smaller it is a clumping plant
some what similar in appearance to T. crocata. While it is a caulescent species
the length of stem is variable, but generally short. With an ageotropic habit,
over time it forms a compact clump.
Foliage: The small silver leaves are soft and flexible with a fuzzy heavy trichome
appearance and can sometimes turn black at the tip. It producers numerous
leaves arranged in a helix which are elongated and tortuous in form.
Flowers: The plant produces a peduncle light red inflorescence about 200 mm
long bearing a few flowers with violet and white petals.
Seed:
Pups:
Cultivation: While this xeric plant can withstand long dry periods it will respond
to regular misting in warmer weather. Once per week in summer will sustain the
plant, once every 2 weeks in winter. If dry it can withstand temperatures down
to 0 degrees.
Availability: A very rare Tillandsia, difficult to locate.
|
