Tillandsia - streptophylla

Description:  Tillandsia streptophylla is often referred to as the "Shirley Temple" plant, due to the intense curling of it's leaves. The scientific name "streptophylla", describes the plant using the Greek words strepto, (meaning twisted) and phylla (meaning leaves). When dehydrated, these leaves will curl into tighter and tighter ringlets. This is quite unique in the Tillandsia world as most plants tend to have the leaf edges curl towards each other when dehydrated, creating a channel which catches the rainwater and moves it towards the center of the plant. The inflorescence is a soft, frosted pink, which stretches out over the top of the plant, producing delicate lavender flowers. This plant is native to Mexico, Honduras, Jamaica and British Honduras. 

Position: They should receive bright, indirect sunlight. Indoors, an east or west facing window area is ideal. Outdoors under partially shaded conditions is fine but in the colder states protection from frost is required, so an undercover or indoor area is more appropriate. 

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 "Decor" section and this bottle can be diluted to create 1L of fertiliser.

Each living plant is unique and may vary slightly in size, colour or shape depending on the season. Flowering plants are sent when available.