Description
About Tillandsia kirschnekii
Tillandsia kirschnekii is a compact Mexican species with an unusually upright build for its size. Rather than opening flat, it holds its leaves close and grows slightly taller than wide.
Leaves are narrow, stiff and heavily silvered, tapering to fine points that curve gently outward near the tips. The trichome coat is dense enough to keep the plant pale year round.
Plants ship at 2 to 3 inches tall. It is closely allied to the ionantha group and shows a similar blush as it approaches flowering, though on a narrower frame.
Small, tough and inexpensive makes it a practical stocking plant. It suits arrangements and grouped mounts better than solo display.
Growing Tillandsia kirschnekii: Care Guide
A small Mexican dry-country plant asks very little. Therefore light and airflow matter more than any watering schedule.
- Light: High light, including direct morning sun. Strong light brings out the blush at bloom.
- Water: Soak 15 minutes every 7 to 10 days. Small plants absorb quickly.
- Drying: Invert and shake. The upright leaf bases pack tightly and hold water at the base.
- Airflow: Good airflow after each soak.
- Temperature: Comfortable from 50°F to 100°F. No frost.
- Feeding: Feed monthly with diluted TillyBoost Fertilizer at quarter strength.
- Mounting: No soil. Glue or wire to cork in groups for a fuller display.
- Pups: Offsets follow bloom and cluster readily. Leave them attached.
See our Air Plant Care page for basics, or browse our Rare Air Plants for more small Mexican species.
