Tillandsia latifolia enano Red Form

Tillandsia latifolia 'Enano Red Form'. This remarkable cultivar is a dwarf, caulescent (stem-growing) form of Tillandsia latifolia, a species native to the coastal deserts of Peru and Ecuador, where it grows at elevations from sea level up to 2,900 meters.

The name "Enano" is Spanish for "dwarf," a fitting description for this compact form. It develops a long, branching stem with leaves that emerge alternately, creating a sculptural, architectural form. The leaves are covered with fewer trichomes than many other air plants, giving them a beautiful metallic luster. When grown in bright, sunny conditions, the foliage takes on a striking reddish hue.

When it blooms, typically producing a short, compound inflorescence, the 'Enano Red Form' puts on a spectacular show with a single, vivid red bract (or multiple bracts on more mature plants) and delicate pink to magenta flowers. The plant is also viviparous, meaning it often produces an offset (pup) directly from the inflorescence after flowering. This "Red Dwarf" is a hardy and easy-to-grow plant that thrives in a variety of conditions.

Care Instructions: Provide strong, indirect or filtered light for optimal growth and to encourage the reddish coloration in the leaves. Water 2 times a week by throughly misting or dunking the plant. Soak monthly for up to 3 hours to rehydrate as necessary.