Description
About Tillandsia aeranthos nigra
Tillandsia aeranthos nigra is the darkest form of Tillandsia aeranthos. In strong light the leaves turn deep bronze to almost black. No other aeranthos comes close to that colour.
Like the species, it grows along a stem. New leaves stack above old ones, so over time the plant becomes a short column rather than a flat rosette. Singles are 3 to 4 inches wide.
The bloom is classic aeranthos: bright pink bracts with blue-violet flowers. Against near-black foliage the contrast is dramatic. It is the grower’s favourite aeranthos here, and it is easy to see why.
Aeranthos comes from southern Brazil, Uruguay and Argentina, and it is hardy. We offer nigra in two sizes.
Stock is limited, because the dark form grows slower than green aeranthos. Collectors ask for it by name. Therefore it commands a better margin than the common form, even at a small size.
Growing Tillandsia aeranthos nigra: Care Guide
Colour depends on light. In shade it stays green, so give it the brightest spot you have.
- Light: Full sun to very bright light. Direct sun drives the dark colour.
- Water: Soak 20 minutes every 10 to 14 days.
- Drying: Invert and shake. Stacked leaves hold water between layers.
- Airflow: Good airflow after each soak.
- Temperature: 35°F to 95°F. It tolerates brief light frost better than most.
- Feeding: Feed monthly with diluted TillyBoost Fertilizer. Do not overfeed, or the colour softens.
- Mounting: Wire to wood or hang loosely. The stem will lean toward the light.
- Pups: Pups along the stem after bloom and forms a tight cluster.
Browse more Rare Air Plants, or read our air plant care guide.
