Description
About Tillandsia Redy
Tillandsia Redy is a hybrid of Tillandsia streptophylla and Tillandsia concolor, bred by Dr. Mark Dimmitt. It carries the best trait of each parent, so it is one of the more sculptural hybrids we grow.
From streptophylla it gets the bulbous base and the curling leaves. From concolor it gets a firmer, more rigid leaf. The result is a rosette that spirals like a windmill but holds its shape.
The foliage is soft green in normal light. Then, as bloom approaches, the centre flushes red and the spike rises with purple flowers. The colour change is dramatic on a large plant.
We grade Redy in three sizes, from 3-inch smalls to larges 10 to 12 inches wide. Larges are true display pieces.
Redy is also a quick seller because the shape reads from a distance. Buyers who cannot name a single species will still point at this one. Stock it where it can be seen.
Growing Tillandsia Redy: Care Guide
Both parents come from dry Mexican and Central American forest. Therefore grow Redy bright and let it dry fully. Redy is more forgiving than pure streptophylla, because the concolor blood keeps the leaves firm even when the plant is thirsty. A plant that has gone too dry recovers with one soak.
- Light: Bright light with some direct sun. Sun tightens the curl and deepens the red.
- Water: Soak 20 minutes every 10 to 14 days. Leaves curl harder when kept drier.
- Drying: Invert and shake well. The bulbous base traps water.
- Airflow: Strong airflow after every soak.
- Temperature: 45°F to 95°F. No frost.
- Feeding: Feed monthly with diluted TillyBoost Fertilizer at quarter strength.
- Mounting: Wire the base to driftwood. Large plants are top heavy, so anchor them well.
- Pups: Two or three pups from the base after bloom.
Browse more Rare Air Plants, or read our air plant care guide.
