Tillandsia - Borumba

Description: Tillandsia Borumba is a hybrid of parentage T. baileyi x T. ionantha ‘Druid’, created by QLD hybridist Margaret Paterson. It is a stunning plant growing to around 15cm and sporting long, curving, frosted leaves. The plant's foliage is silvery-green in colour and heavily coated in trichomes. It is very similar to T. Califano, however it seems to not blush as bright a pink when in bloom (possibly due to the parent ionanth being a Druid form). The flowers will be tubular, and blue in colour. Once it finishes flowering it will produce many pups from the base, and quickly form a nice clump. This variety can be susceptible to spidermite. 

Position: Growing this species indoors is possible. However you will need to make sure it is next to a window with bright light, and good air flow. This species will thrive outside under bright, but indirect sunlight. Under a tree, verandah or deck, or in a shadehouse are all great locations for this plant. Ensure the location you choose has good air flow to help the plant dry out between watering. This species can withstand low temperatures, however it must be protected from frost. This species can be grown suspended or mounted on a solid substrate that does not retain water (timber, cork bark, etc). You can attach this plant to the surface using coated wire, fishing line, or an adhesive such as silicone, hot glue, or no-more nails. Do not cover the base of the plant with moss or any other substrate as it may rot.

Watering: As a general rule, a plant in a hot position will require watering every 2-3 days. In a dark, humid environment watering once per week can often be adequate. This can be achieved by misting or dunking the plant. If outdoors, a hose can be used. When dunking a plant, leave submerged in a bowl of water for 10-20 minutes before shaking off excess water. Air plants love to dry out completely between each watering and must never have water sitting at their base as this will cause the plant to rot.

Fertilisation: We recommend fertilising your Air Plants once a fortnight in the warmer months and once a month through winter. We sell Air Plant Fertiliser in our "Accessories" section. Simply give the plant one or two sprays after watering.