Tillandsia capillaris Giant Form

Tillandsia capillaris 'Giant Form'. This is a relatively new cultivar of Tillandsia capillaris, a species native to a wide range of South America, from Argentina and Chile to Peru and Ecuador. It belongs to the Diaphoranthema subgenus, a group of air plants known for their small size and unique growth habits.

The 'Giant Form' lives up to its name, growing significantly larger than the standard species and developing a much denser coating of trichomes, giving it a beautiful, frosted appearance. One of its most captivating features is its caulescent growth habit: it grows as a branching stem, with leaves emerging alternately as it extends. This creates a truly unique and sculptural form that sets it apart from many other air plants. Its leaves are slightly stiff and succulent.

When it blooms, this plant offers a delicate and fragrant surprise. It produces a short flower stalk that bears small, bright yellow flowers. While the flowers are small, they carry a pleasant fragrance, often described as a refreshing, sweet scent.

Care Instructions: Provide bright, indirect light for optimal growth and flowering. It can handle some direct sunlight outdoors, but avoid the harsh afternoon rays. This plant is more drought tolerant than the standard form, but still requires consistent watering. Water approximately 2-3 per week by thoroughly misting the plant or soaking it in water up to 10 minutes once a week.