Tillandsia straminea

Introducing Tillandsia straminea - a spectacular, large-growing epiphytic air plant known for its elegant silver foliage, impressive size, and fragrant, long-lasting blooms:

• Foliage: Long, narrow, recurving (bending backward) leaves from 30-50cm (12-20") long on mature specimens
• Inflorescence: Erect and robust, stands tall above the foliage, often in heights of 30-45cm (12-18") though heavier inflorescence may lean slightly under their own weight
• Fragrance: The scent is often compared to Cattleya orchids - a complex, spicy-sweet floral aroma. Flowers tend to emit their strongest fragrance during the midday to early afternoon hours

Key features:

• In its native habitat of the highlands of Ecuador and Peru, it is often found growing on cactus and deciduous trees rather than in humid rainforests
• Growth Pattern: A slower grower when young, it invests heavily in root development to anchor itself to trees. As the plant matures, the rosette opens up widely, resembling a large, silvery starburst or nest
• Size: One of the larger "true" air plants, a mature rosette can easily reach 60-90cm (24-36") across with a total height up to 90cm (36") including the inflorescence. In optimal growing conditions, the pups (offsets) produced often grow larger than the mother plant

Care tip: Is considered a "xeric" air plant, meaning it is adapted to drier, sunny environments and will prefer frequent misting or quick dunks compared to long soaks

Ideal for: The advanced air plant collector, xeriscape or dry-garden designer, low-water/high impact gardener, fragrance enthusiast, and patience-embracing grower