Tillandsia toropiensis

Bring home a piece of Brazilian botanical history with Tillandsia toropiensis. This semi-rare species of air plant was first described in 1984 by the renowned botanist Professor Dr. Werner Rauh. It is native to the state of Rio Grande do Sul in southern Brazil, where it grows as a lithophyte (on rocks) and epiphyte at altitudes of around 300 meters.

This plant forms a nice, clumping rosette of silver, succulent foliage that tapers to a point. It frequently produces offsets at the bottom of the plant, not only during the flowering period. The clumps can reach up to 1 meter in diameter over time, with single plants growing on a long stem up to 25cm tall.

When in bloom, typically from autumn to winter, Tillandsia toropiensis produces a stunning, simple inflorescence with striking red bracts and pure white, trumpet-shaped flowers. Some forms may also exhibit pale to deep purple bracts with purple flowers. The species is related to Tillandsia leucopetala, but can be distinguished by its flower characteristics. 

Care Instructions: Provide strong, indirect or filtered light for optimal growth. Water every 2-3 days in a hot position or less in a cooler, darker, or more humid environment. Watering once a week may be sufficient. If dunking, do not exceed 10-20 minutes. Air plants must dry out completely between waterings.