Tillandsias Ionantha Scaposa

It grows in the forests of Guatemala at altitudes of 1,500-1,950 meters. It is distinguished from Ionantha by its short but distinct bloom scape and distichous, imbricate floral bracts. Tillandsia scaposa is largest of the ionanthas. Plants of 15 cm in width and height are not uncommon, although average mature plants are closer to 10 cm. The leaves of ionantha scaposa are less stiff and softer, the foliage is slightly different in colour. It s darker and greyer green. When in bloom, the upper part of the plant becomes carmine. The rest of the plant remains the same grey-green. With the ionanthas the entire plant changes to crimson when given strong light. The flower of ionantha scaposa is mauve to amethyst rather than grape violet. It does not tolerate as much light or survive dry periods as long as ionanthas. The leaves lose internal water via transpiration more quickly, so care must be taken in drier climes whether indoors or out. It should be watered more frequently and / or given more humidity than ionanthas. This plant is more robust when grown at cooler temperatures.

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