{"product_id":"tillandsia-tectorum-caulescent-form","title":"Tillandsia tectorum Caulescent Form","description":"\u003cp\u003eTillandsia tectorum ‘Caulescent Form’. This remarkable air plant is native to the high Andes of Peru and Ecuador, where it grows at elevations between 2,000 and 3,500 meters (6,500–11,500 feet).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe 'Caulescent Form' is defined by its stem-growing (caulescent) habit, which sets it apart from the standard rosette form. While the standard T. tectorum forms a dense, round rosette, this form grows significantly in length, developing a long stem that can reach several feet over time. The leaves are relatively compact along the stem, but the plant branches prolifically and can eventually form a giant, trailing specimen.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIts most captivating feature is its dense covering of long, white trichomes (specialized leaf hairs), giving the plant an incredibly soft, fuzzy appearance. It looks like it has been dusted with powdered sugar or covered in fresh snow—hence its \"Snowball\" nickname. This remarkable adaptation protects it from intense UV radiation and prevents moisture loss in its harsh, high-altitude habitat.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe 'Caulescent Form' is also notably larger than the standard form, reaching up to 20 cm (8 inches) in diameter and 20–30 cm (8–12 inches) in length. When in bloom, it produces a tall, attractive flower spike with pale pink bracts and small purple or purple-and-white flowers.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ctable width=\"100%\" style=\"width: 100%;\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"width: 66.0808%;\"\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eSize\u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"width: 33.7434%;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eInches\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"width: 66.0808%;\"\u003eExtra Large\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"width: 33.7434%;\"\u003e5\"-6\"\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCare Instructions: Provide very bright light, up to full sun, for optimal growth. This plant cannot tolerate low-light conditions. This species is highly drought tolerant and is prone to rot if overwatered. Water approximately every 3-5 days by throughly misting or soaking every 7-10 days for up to 20 minutes. Plants in high lighting may need more frequent waterings. \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Rainforest Flora","offers":[{"title":"X-Large","offer_id":49853615931634,"sku":null,"price":15.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0711\/1763\/5826\/files\/Tillandsia_tectorum_Caulescent_Form_xlarge_-_side_view.jpg?v=1785201797","url":"https:\/\/rainforestflora.com\/products\/tillandsia-tectorum-caulescent-form","provider":"Rainforest Flora","version":"1.0","type":"link"}