Tillandsia capitata ‘Rubra’ is a spectacular air plant, valued for its wide rosette and the intense coloration it can develop in good light. The thick, elegantly arranged leaves start in silver-green or gray-green shades and can turn reddish to intense red, especially near flowering. It is a very decorative tillandsia, suitable for natural arrangements, minimalist supports, or air plant collections. The species is native to Mexico, and consulted sources mention forms from Jalisco and Chiapas.
🌿 Botanical characteristics:
• Family: Bromeliaceae
• Growth type: epiphytic / air plant (does not need soil)
• Leaves: thick, firm, arranged in a wide rosette, with a sculptural appearance
• Color: silver-green or gray-green, with a reddish blush to intense red in good light or near flowering
• Flowers: blue to violet, appearing among red bracts
• Size: medium to large species; some sources mention up to approximately 15-30 cm, and the species can grow even larger under very good conditions
☀️ Growing conditions:
• Light: prefers bright but diffused natural light; avoid direct exposure to midday sun.
• Watering: mist 2–3 times a week in summer and 1–2 times in winter; can be occasionally soaked in clean water for 15–20 minutes, then allowed to dry completely.
• Temperature: ideal between 18–28 °C; avoid cold below 10 °C.
• Humidity: moderate (50–70%), with well-ventilated air to prevent mold.
💨 Care:
After watering, place the plant with the leaves facing down to allow water drainage. It can be fertilized monthly with a diluted fertilizer for bromeliads or orchids to maintain intense color and vigorous growth.
⚠️ Note:
Small imperfections on the leaves or marginal dryness may appear during transport or under temperature variations – these are normal and do not affect the plant's viability. Flowers may be temporary during delivery.
Height 20 cm