Description
Tillandsia ‘Oddball’ is a unique and striking hybrid of T. exserta and T. velutina. It is highly prized by air plant collectors for its dramatic, twisting architecture and soft, “velvet” texture.
Key Characteristics; Foliage & Form: The plant features long, slender leaves that tend to curve, twist, and recurve, a trait inherited from T. exserta. However, unlike the stiff, scurfy leaves of T. exserta, ‘Oddball’ leaves are softer to the touch and covered in fine trichomes, giving them a fuzzy or velvety appearance similar to T. velutina. It is caulescent and can grow over 2′ long!
Color: Typically a silvery-green or sage green. Under high light or as it approaches its bloom cycle, the plant can “blush” with hues of pink, peach, or soft red.
Growth Habit: It forms a loose, chaotic rosette that can become quite large. It is often described as looking whimsical, which is how it earned its name.
Inflorescence: When it blooms, it produces a suppressed flower spike. The bracts are usually a bright pink or red, producing tubular purple flowers.
Care Requirements: Because of its parentage, ‘Oddball’ is very hardy but prefers a balance of air circulation and moisture.
