Description
About Tillandsia intermedia
Tillandsia intermedia is a viviparous species from the Pacific slopes of Mexico. Instead of pupping only at the base, it grows new plants from the tip of the bloom spike. Over time this builds a long hanging chain of rosettes.
Each plant has a slightly bulbous base and long, twisting grey-green leaves. When watered sparingly the leaves curl tightly, which many growers prefer. Well-watered plants grow longer and straighter.
It is a natural for hanging displays. A single specimen with chained pups looks like a living mobile, and it sells on sight.
We grade intermedia from 4-inch minis to 16-inch specimens. Larger grades often ship with pups already forming on the spike.
The bloom itself is a pink spike with purple flowers. Then the spike keeps going, because the plantlets form at its tip. Nothing else in the catalog shows customers how air plants reproduce as clearly as this one does.
Growing Tillandsia intermedia: Care Guide
Intermedia likes more moisture than a true xeric species, but it must still dry out fully. Balance water with airflow.
- Light: Bright indirect light. Filtered sun is ideal.
- Water: Soak 20 minutes every 7 to 10 days. It enjoys humidity between soaks.
- Drying: Invert and shake. The bulbous base can hold water, so drain it well.
- Airflow: Good airflow, especially in humid conditions.
- Temperature: 45°F to 95°F. No frost.
- Feeding: Feed monthly with diluted TillyBoost Fertilizer. Feeding speeds up spike pups.
- Mounting: Hang it. Wire the base and let the chain grow downward.
- Pups: Leave spike pups attached. Cutting the chain is optional, not required.
See our air plant care guide for more, or browse the rest of our Rare Air Plants.
