Tillandsia ionantha Rubra

- Taxonomy
- Family: Bromeliaceae · Genus: Tillandsia
- Plant type
- Evergreen, perennial, epiphytic bromeliad. A compact, rosette-growing atmospheric plant. It develops elongated, narrow leaves covered with silvery scales. Before flowering, the leaves change to an intense reddish or pink color.
- Native distribution
- The natural distribution area of the Tillandsia ionantha species is Mexico and Central America. The 'Rubra' horticultural variety does not have a distinct natural distribution area.
- Natural habitat
- The species has an epiphytic lifestyle, settling on tree branches and rocky surfaces. In its natural habitats, it utilizes moisture from air humidity and precipitation.
- Height / growth form
- A compact, dense, rosette-growing, small-sized atmospheric bromeliad. Mature specimens typically reach a height and width of about 10 cm.
- Flowering period
- It can flower in spring and summer. Before flowering, the leaves exhibit vibrant red or pink coloration. Its flowers are tubular, violet-blue or purplish, developing from reddish bracts.
- Growth & dormancy period
- An evergreen, perennial plant. It can grow year-round with adequate light, temperature, and moisture. A precisely defined dormancy period for the horticultural 'Rubra' variety is not documented.
- Ecology
- An epiphytic atmospheric bromeliad. Its roots primarily serve for anchorage. The silvery trichomes on the leaf surfaces help in the absorption of water and atmospheric moisture. In its natural environment, it lives on trees and the surfaces of other plants, developing without soil.
Sources (1)
- Tillandsia ionantha Planch. · Accepted name
Automatic data comes from the open sources above, credited per their licences. Care experience is shown separately below.
Tips & experience from members
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How members water it
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How it thrives
No monthly schedule is shown because cultivar-/species-level data is not yet sufficient. The general values above are guidance only.
Tillandsia tip: Soak it weekly for 20 minutes, then let it dry upside down within 4 hours.
Tillandsia ionantha Rubra – what to know
Tillandsia ionantha Rubra is a cultivar of Tillandsia ionantha (Bromeliaceae). Native range: The natural distribution area of the Tillandsia ionantha species is Mexico and Central America. The 'Rubra' horticultural variety does not have a distinct natu…. Care guidelines: light: full sun; water: low; min. 10 °C. One Perfect Plants Club member grows it (0 photos). It is not known to be toxic to cats or dogs.
All Tillandsia species in the catalog →Detailed toxicity data →
Frequently asked questions
How often should I water Tillandsia ionantha Rubra?
Sparingly: let the soil dry out completely between waterings, and water even less in winter.
How much light does Tillandsia ionantha Rubra need?
It needs plenty of direct sun – the sunniest window, or outdoors in summer, suits it best.
How cold can Tillandsia ionantha Rubra get?
Keep it above 10 °C – it is frost-tender and needs a frost-free spot in winter.
Is Tillandsia ionantha Rubra toxic to cats and dogs?
It is not known to be toxic to cats or dogs.
When does Tillandsia ionantha Rubra flower?
According to the general guideline for the genus Tillandsia: Typical flowering time: March, April, May, June.
What members’ data shows
When does it really bloom?
No blooms logged yet. If yours flowers, your data will be the first!
Average watering interval
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Who grows it?
Questions about this species
Tillandsia
Care data is for guidance only.

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