T.ionantha rubra

Tillandsia ionantha rubra
Air Plant  Blushing Form  “The Crimson Spark”
Tillandsia ionantha rubra is a vibrant cultivar of the classic ionantha, known for its intense red blush and compact rosette shape. Native to Central America, it’s a favorite among air plant collectors and interior stylists alike. When in bloom, it bursts with purple tubular flowers that contrast beautifully against its crimson foliage.
•     Size: 4–8 cm tall
•     Color: Green base with vivid red blush; deepens before bloom
•     Bloom: Purple tubular flowers with yellow stamens
•     Display Ideas: Ceramic pods, wood mounts, gift boxes

Care Instructions:

• Watering Frequency: Hose or spray your Tillandsia thoroughly on the leaves. Tillandsia absorbs water only through their leaves. Frequency of watering depends on growing conditions. The avarage for summer is 2-3 times a week and winter is 1-2 times a week. Trichomes visible on leaves assit with absorbtion of water.
• Light: Bright light and air movement is critical to growing Tillandsia successfully. Filtered sunlight preferably morning sun is essential. Typically, more trichomes stuck closely together indicates a plant from more arid envirement and can tolerate more sun.
• Mistakes often made: Do not display your Tillandsia on any material or surface that contains a copper substance as it is toxic to your plants. Do not let your Tillandsia sit in water as the plants must dry out after each watering. Overwatering and lack of light is the most common mistake made by growers. Do not remove the pups from mother too early. They must be atleast one third size of mother plant.
• Fertilizing and propagation: Air plants crave essential minerals like Potassium and Nitrogen, Foliar feedingin a liquid form uon leaves once or twice a month is sufficient.Air plants will starts its reproduction process by growing "pups" at its base or in some species on the flower stem. Seeds can also develop after flowering and have variable germination times.