Description

Tillandsia intermedia: The Curious “Upside-Down” Air Plant

Get ready to meet Tillandsia intermedia, an intriguing and laid-back air plant that defies common sense. Unlike most Tillandsias that grow vertically, intermedia adopts a pendulous growth habit, forming charming green cascades. Originating from western Mexico, this species possesses characteristics that make it unique:

• Pendulous Growth: The main characteristic of Tillandsia intermedia is its “upside-down” growth. It develops shoots from the base of the plant, which elongate and gracefully hang down, forming lush green cascades.
• Inverted Adaptability: Although it grows suspended, Tillandsia intermedia absorbs water and nutrients from the air through trichomes on its leaves, just like other air plants. This inverted adaptation makes it perfect for cultivation in hanging locations, such as hanging baskets, kokedamas, or tied to tree branches.
• Variable Coloring: The coloration of Tillandsia intermedia’s leaves can range from grayish-green to dark green, depending on the exposure to light. Plants with more direct sunlight tend to exhibit darker tones.
• Vibrant Flowering: When it blooms, Tillandsia intermedia displays a vibrant red or orange inflorescence, which contrasts beautifully with the green foliage, making the plant even more attractive.

Essential Care:

To keep your Tillandsia intermedia healthy and pendulous with lushness, follow these basic care guidelines:

• Watering: Water your Tillandsia intermedia by soaking. Fully submerge the plant in water for 10-15 minutes, once or twice a week, depending on the climate and air circulation. Allow it to drain well and dry completely before placing it back on its support.
• Light: Provide bright filtered sunlight. Avoid intense direct sunlight during the hottest hours of the day, as it can burn the leaves.
• Air Circulation: It is crucial to keep Tillandsia intermedia in a location with excellent air circulation to avoid moisture buildup and prevent the onset of fungi.
• Fertilization: Fertilization is not essential, but you can occasionally provide a diluted bromeliad-specific fertilizer in the watering water.

Tillandsia intermedia: An Inverted Green Touch in Your Home

With its pendulous growth habit, interesting foliage, and vibrant flowering, Tillandsia intermedia is an air plant that will surely catch attention. Ideal for both beginner and experienced collectors, it adds an inverted green touch and plenty of curiosity to any environment.

Additional Tips:

• You can lightly mist your Tillandsia intermedia between waterings, especially in dry climates.
• When choosing a support for your Tillandsia intermedia, ensure that it allows for complete water drainage and good air circulation.
• If your Tillandsia intermedia is growing too long, you can propagate it by division, cutting healthy shoots from the base of the plant to create new green cascades.

With proper care and attention, your Tillandsia intermedia will grow lush and pendulous, bringing an unusual touch and plenty of beauty to your home.