Description
About Tillandsia streptophylla belize x caput medusae
Tillandsia streptophylla belize x caput medusae crosses two of the most recognisable bulbous plants in the Tillandsia genus. Both parents build a hollow swollen base and send twisting leaves out from it.
The Belize form of streptophylla is the larger, heavier selection, so this cross carries more substance than an ordinary streptophylla hybrid. Caput medusae adds the snaking, channelled leaf shape.
The result curls dramatically. Leaves ringlet when the plant is dry and relax after a soak, which means it tells you plainly when it wants water.
Plants ship at 6 inches and up. Two bulbous parents make this an unusually sculptural plant for the price.
Growing Tillandsia streptophylla belize x caput medusae: Care Guide
Both parents are hollow-based. Therefore drainage is the single thing that decides whether this plant lives.
- Light: High light. Strong light tightens the curl, which is exactly what buyers are paying for.
- Water: Soak 20 to 30 minutes every 10 to 14 days. Read the leaves rather than the calendar.
- Drying: The critical rule. The pseudobulb fills during a soak, so invert the plant and shake it firmly every single time.
- Airflow: Strong airflow. Aim to be dry within four hours.
- Temperature: Comfortable from 55°F to 100°F. No frost.
- Feeding: Feed monthly in spring and summer with diluted TillyBoost Fertilizer at quarter strength.
- Mounting: No soil. Wire it at an angle or bulb-down so the base drains freely.
- Pups: Offsets form around the bulb after bloom. Separate at one third the size of the mother.
See our Air Plant Care page, or browse our Rare Air Plants for more bulbous crosses.
