Description
About Tillandsia streptocarpa
Tillandsia streptocarpa is a close relative of duratii, and it shares the two traits that make that species famous. Leaves curl backward as they lengthen, and the flowers carry a powerful sweet fragrance.
It stays far smaller than duratii, which makes it much easier to stock and display. Where duratii sprawls to several feet, streptocarpa holds a compact silver form.
The curl is functional rather than decorative. Leaf tips hook around whatever they touch, so the plant largely anchors itself to a mount without help.
Three grades run from 4 inches upward. It comes from the dry Chaco country of Bolivia, Paraguay and northern Argentina, and it is thoroughly drought hardy.
Growing Tillandsia streptocarpa: Care Guide
Dry Chaco scrub means sun and wind. Therefore grow it bright and water it infrequently.
- Light: High light. Strong light tightens the curl and drives the flowering that carries the scent.
- Water: Soak 20 minutes every 10 to 14 days. It handles long dry spells easily.
- Drying: Invert and shake. Curled leaves overlap and trap water where they cross.
- Airflow: Good airflow after each soak.
- Temperature: Comfortable from 45°F to 95°F. No frost.
- Feeding: Feed monthly with diluted TillyBoost Fertilizer at quarter strength. Flowering rewards steady feeding.
- Mounting: No soil. Hang it or wire it loosely and let the curling tips find their own grip.
- Pups: Offsets follow bloom. Separate at one third the size of the mother.
Browse our Fragrant Air Plants for more scented species, see our Air Plant Care page, or our Rare Air Plants.
