Description
About Tillandsia ehlersiana
Tillandsia ehlersiana is a bulbous species from Chiapas, Mexico. The base swells into a fat, hollow bulb, and the silver leaves twist outward from the top. It is one of the most sculptural Tillandsia species we grow.
It starts small but does not stay small. A 1-inch mini becomes a 12-inch XXL over the years, and the bulb thickens with age. Older plants develop a little algae at the base, which is normal and harmless.
The leaf surface is densely scaled, so the whole plant looks frosted. That silver finish holds up under bright light, and it contrasts well with green plants in a display.
We stock six sizes from mini to XXL. It is very easy to grow, so it suits beginners as well as collectors.
Bloom is a branched red spike with purple flowers, and it rises well above the leaves. Even out of bloom, however, the bulb and silver leaves carry the display. It sells on shape alone.
Growing Tillandsia ehlersiana: Care Guide
The hollow bulb is the one thing to watch. Water trapped inside it will rot the plant, so drying matters more than watering.
- Light: Bright light with some direct sun. Strong light keeps the leaves compact and silver.
- Water: Soak 20 minutes every 10 to 14 days. It is very drought tolerant.
- Drying: Invert and shake hard. Then keep it upside down until the bulb is empty.
- Airflow: Good airflow after every soak.
- Temperature: 45°F to 95°F. Keep it above freezing.
- Feeding: Feed monthly with diluted TillyBoost Fertilizer at quarter strength.
- Mounting: Wire it by the bulb or set it in a holder that lets water drain. Large plants need a sturdy base.
- Pups: Pups from the base after bloom. Separate at one third the mother’s size.
Browse more Rare Air Plants, or read our air plant care guide for the basics.
