Description
About Tillandsia capitata red Chiapas
Tillandsia capitata red Chiapas is a red-blushing form of Tillandsia capitata from the state of Chiapas in southern Mexico. It is a large, upright plant, and it colours hard in bright light.
Young plants grow upright, with leaves held close. Then, as they get big, they spread wide. Smalls are 5 inches, and extra-large plants pass 16 inches across.
The blush is vibrant red across the whole rosette. Current stock is green, because plants colour in response to light, and they will blush once they are in a bright spot.
Unlike most air plants, it can also be potted in an orchid mix. Potted plants grow bigger and faster.
We grade it in four sizes. Compared with our compact Coral form, the Chiapas form is the choice for buyers who want size and a big red statement.
Growing Tillandsia capitata red Chiapas: Care Guide
Capitata grows on rocks and trees in seasonally wet Mexican forest, so it takes more water than a true xeric plant. Grow it bright for colour, water it weekly, and give it room to spread. Potting in bark is optional but rewarding. Give big plants space on the bench, because a spreading XL will shade whatever sits beside it.
- Light: Bright light with some direct sun. Light drives the red.
- Water: Soak 20 minutes every 7 to 10 days, or water potted plants weekly.
- Drying: Invert and shake unpotted plants. Let potted plants drain.
- Airflow: Good airflow after each watering.
- Temperature: 45°F to 95°F. No frost.
- Feeding: Feed monthly with diluted TillyBoost Fertilizer. Feeding supports the size.
- Mounting: Wire large plants to a solid mount, or pot in orchid bark.
- Pups: Two to four pups after bloom.
Browse more Rare Air Plants, or see our air plant care guide.
