Tillandsias Streptophylla

Is an species that grows from sea level to more than 800 meters in elevation, and its range extends from southern Mexico to Honduras. Interestingly, the grower can control the amount of curl in the leaves by the amount of water and humidity the plant receives. In a wetter, more humid environment the leaves grow straighter. With dryer conditions, the leaves tighten into curled ringlets. Enthusiasts can be found who favour either style- it is purely a matter of personal preference as to how one wishes to grow this species. It varies in size; a small mature specimen is about 18cm. In width and height. Larger plants often grow to 60 cm. A plant that is dehydrated can be quickly hydrated by an overnight soaking in water - a pinch of fertiliser helps. The leaves will absorb water until full and then will not absorb any more. Oxygen and carbon dioxide gas exchange, so vital to a plant’s metabolic activity, will not be adversely affected if interrupted for a day or so.

The compound floral cluster is large and colourful. The scape and primary bracts are normally carmine when given bright light.. The mauve blooms add colour for weeks.

This species will grow well under varied conditions. The care that one gives the plant will directly affect its appearance. It is more susceptible to rot than many other species. This is especially true indoors where a lack of fresh, circulating air sometimes contributes to the problem of continuously moist meristem. Mounting the plant in a horizontal position often helps ameliorate this condition. It is often difficult to mount because it is so bulbous. As a consequence, the base can be far from the mounting medium if the plant is mounted vertically. Even though this is not important for the health of the plant, aesthetically is more pleasing if the roots are close to the mounting medium.

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