Native distribution and habitat: There are many ‘forms’ of T. hildae, native to
dry valleys of the eastern slopes of the Andes, North Peru. Around Chamaya
aqnd Cajamarca Rauh observed hundreds of plants, growing in steep, nearly
inaccessible rock walls at altitudes from 800 m to 1,200 m.
Growth habit: The plant forms an impressive bold shape with some forms
growing very large to more than 2 meters in height and diameter.
Foliage: Over time the plant will produce a large number of leaves. The leaves
can exceed 800 mm, they are rigid, green but quickly becoming purple, rosacea
and brown. As the mature leaves form wonderful silver cross banding trichome
patterns, it is most appealing when in its vegetative stage, for the flowers are
small and insignificant.
Flowers: Often the thin stem arches over with the weight of the green inflorescence.
The flowers have purple petals.
Seed: Seed takes about 10 days to germinate
Pups:
Cultivation: The plant needs heat. Cold and or prolonged wet are detrimental
to the plant. The plant responds well to fertilization.
Availability: A rare sort after plant, not very often available.
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