Tillandsia queroensis

Tillandsia queroensis. This remarkable caulescent species originates from the area near Quero in central Ecuador and is also found in Peru. It is a high-altitude plant, typically found growing terrestrially on steep, rocky slopes between 2500 and 2800 meters.

The defining feature of T. queroensis is its incredible, elongated stem. While the average plant in cultivation forms stems around two feet long, in the wild, this species has been documented with stems exceeding ten feet in length! Its branching, caulescent growth habit makes it a true architectural wonder. The plant produces hard, greenish-gray leaves that are narrowly triangular and covered in dense, appressed trichomes (scales).

When it blooms, T. queroensis produces a curved scape (flower stalk) that rises above the foliage. The inflorescence is a stunning bipinnate spike, 10-24 cm long, with erect red primary bracts and 5-9 flowers per spike. The flowers themselves are a vibrant pink.

Care Instructions: Provide bright light for optimal growth. Water by thoroughly misting every 2-5 days or dunking the plant in a bowl of water for 10-20 minutes weekly, then shake off excess water.