Tillandsia - tricolor

Description: Tillandsia tricolor is a cold hardy plant native to Costa Rica, Mexico and Nicaragua. When it is observed in the wild it can be seen growing at altitudes of 1,100m to 2,100m. The leaves change in colour from base to top - starting as brown at the base, the leaves then change to a bright green colour. Interestingly, the transition between the brown and green is made up of many small brown spots. These leaves are rigid in structure and will blush red when in bloom (if kept in high light). The plant has a sword like yellow inflorescence which produces bright purple flowers from either side. This species enjoys being mounted or potted in a small pot of well draining potting mix. (This enables the plant to orientate itself.)

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.