Tillandsia tectorum

Native to Ecuador and Peru, this striking epiphyte thrives on rock outcroppings and cliff faces at elevations of 980-2,700 meters.

Key Features:

• Caulescent growth with large, cinereous trichomes
• Stunning snow-white appearance
• Highly adaptive to various sizes and shapes
• Exceptional tolerance to bright light and UV radiation

Tillandsia tectorum is a true marvel of adaptation, aptly named for its history of being cultivated on rooftops in its native range. This airplant forms a mesmerizing, snowlike rosette thanks to its dense covering of large, cinereous trichomes. These specialized structures give the plant its distinctive fuzzy, white appearance and play a crucial role in its survival in harsh, high-altitude environments.

The plant's size can vary greatly, from smaller specimens of 5-8 cm to impressive "basketball-sized" individuals reaching 25-30 cm. Its polystichous leaves are uniform-attenuate, creating a symmetrical, rectangular shape that's particularly eye-catching.

When in bloom, T. tectorum produces a striking inflorescence. The bloom scape is slender and usually bears cuneate, complanate, compound digitate spikes. The glabrous, imbricate floral bracts are purple, creating a stunning contrast against the snowy white leaves. The small petals are aster violet, although some Peruvian populations have white tips.

Collector's Note: This species exhibits a high degree of endomorphy, with one seed capable of producing numerous offsets that grow together as a clump. Different varieties exist across its range, adapting to various habitats and altitude.

Care Tips: Provide very bright light, excellent air circulation, and infrequent but thorough watering. Allow to dry quickly after watering. This species is well-adapted to strong UV radiation and can tolerate more direct sun than many other Tillandsias.

Ideal for:

• Collectors seeking a visually striking, high-altitude Tillandsia
• Enthusiasts interested in plants with extreme environmental adaptations
• Those who can provide bright light and low humidity conditions
• Xeriscaping projects or dry, sunny indoor spaces

Display Recommendation: Mount on a piece of weathered wood or rock to mimic its natural cliff-dwelling habitat. Ensure the display allows for excellent air circulation around the plant.

Bring home this snowy jewel of the Andes and witness the remarkable adaptations of high-altitude airplants in your own space.