Description
About Tillandsia caerulea
Tillandsia caerulea is a Tillandsia from the arid regions of Ecuador and Peru. It grows along a stem with narrow grey leaves, and over time it clusters into a full specimen.
The flowers are lavender, and they are fragrant. They appear on long, wiry stems that hold them well clear of the leaves, so a clump in bloom looks like a cloud of small flowers on threads.
Smalls are 5 inches tall, and larges are 9 inches or more. Clumps of about 6 inches carry three or more pups.
Because it comes from dry country, it tolerates neglect well and holds its looks on a shelf for a long time.
Caerulea is an inexpensive fragrant plant with an unusual bloom habit. It pairs well with bandensis and crocata in a scented display, and it costs a dollar.
Growing Tillandsia caerulea: Care Guide
Arid Andean foothills mean sun, wind and long dry spells. Treat caerulea as xeric: bright light, quick drying and infrequent soaks. It flowers best after a cool, dry rest. Once flower stems form, stop soaking and mist instead, so the wiry stems stay upright and the scented flowers open clean.
- Light: Bright light with direct sun for part of the day.
- Water: Soak 20 minutes every 10 to 14 days.
- Drying: Shake and hang. Stems hold water between leaves.
- Airflow: Good airflow after each soak.
- Temperature: 40°F to 95°F. Cool nights are welcome.
- Feeding: Feed monthly with diluted TillyBoost Fertilizer at quarter strength.
- Mounting: Wire the base and hang it so the flower stems can stand clear.
- Pups: Along the stem. Leave them on for a clump.
Browse our other Fragrant Air Plants, or read the air plant care guide.
