Description
About Tillandsia recurvifolia subsecundifolia
Tillandsia recurvifolia var. subsecundifolia is a variety of Tillandsia recurvifolia from southern Brazil. The leaves recurve, as the species name says, and in this variety they tend to sweep to one side.
The rosette is silver-grey and compact. Because the leaves curve, plants may carry some bend from growing on a bench, which is stated on the size options.
The bloom is the recurvifolia signature: a bright orange spike with pure white flowers. It stands clear of the leaves and lasts for weeks.
We grade it from 2-inch minis to 6-inch extra-larges, plus small, medium and large clumps.
This variety is the inexpensive way into the recurvifolia bloom. At $1.50 it costs less than the type form, and clumps carry several spikes at once.
Growing Tillandsia recurvifolia subsecundifolia: Care Guide
It grows on trees and rocks in southern Brazil and tolerates both cool weather and drought. Bright light and a regular soak bring reliable bloom, and more sun as the spike forms deepens the orange. Clumps hold water at the base, so shake them well after each soak. It is a tough, tidy plant for a shop shelf, and one that will bloom on the shelf if the light is bright enough.
- Light: Bright light with some direct sun.
- Water: Soak 20 minutes every 7 to 10 days.
- Drying: Invert and shake. Curved leaves hold water at the base.
- Airflow: Good airflow after each soak.
- Temperature: 35°F to 95°F. It handles brief light frost.
- Feeding: Feed monthly with diluted TillyBoost Fertilizer. Feeding improves the spike.
- Mounting: Glue or wire to wood. Clumps display well hanging.
- Pups: Two to four pups after bloom.
Browse more Air Plants, or see our air plant care guide.
