Tillandsias are regarded as true air plants and as such are among the most unusual of the Bromeliad family. They range from bulbous forms and grass like structures to silver tufted masses. Typically they grow where there is free air movement like high treetop environments or across open rock faces, and often they are heavily covered in silver trichomes that help reflect the high levels of sun light they receive in these locations. While some tolerate temperatures as low as 5 degrees C (40 degrees F), or even lower, most prefer temperatures of around 10-32 degrees C (50-32 degrees F). While they require high levels of humidity, they need to dry out quickly and completely between misting or watering. As the trichome scales open to absorb moisture and close to retain it, it is important that the plants are given time to dry out and most plant deaths occur because of over watering.

Tillandsia smalliana

Family: Bromeliad Sub-Family: Tillandsioideae: Genus: Tiandsia Sub-Genus: Native distribution and habitat: The plant is considered a natural hybrid T. balbisiana × T. fasciculata and is a native to the US state of Florida. Some reports indicate that it may formerly have existed also in Central America, but is now apparently extinct there It started off its career in the 1930’s as T. polystachia sensu Small but there seemed to be much doubt by several taxonomists as to this being correct, but nobody took any action. In 1985 Harry Luther took the plunge and considered it to be a natural hybrid between T. balbisiana and T. fasciculata var. densispica. Growth habit: The plant has a similar form to T. fasciculata but with a slightly bulbous base Foliage: The arching green leaves tapper to a point and are stiff. Flowers: The flowers forms on a thin, branched inflorescence that takes on a red colour.. Seed: Pups: Cultivation: Availability: Not often available.