| Tillandsia xerographica | |
|---|---|
| Scientific classification | |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| (unranked): | Angiosperms |
| (unranked): | Monocots |
| (unranked): | Commelinids |
| Order: | Poales |
| Family: | Bromeliaceae |
| Subfamily: | Tillandsioideae |
| Genus: | Tillandsia |
| Species: | T. xerographica |
| Binomial name | |
| Tillandsia xerographica Rohweder |
|
Tillandsia xerographica is a species of the genus Tillandsia. Tillandsia xerographica is a beautiful species native to Salvador, Mexico and Guatemala, this rare cultivar is considered the King of the Tillandsia world. It is very slow growing but easy to care for indoor/outdoor show plant. Can live in a wide temperature range, from 1°C to 45°C. The silvery gray leaves are wide at the base and taper to a point making an attractive, sculptural rosette, 3 feet or more in diameter and over 3 feet high in flower. The inflorescence, on a thick, green stem, from 6 to 15 inches in height, densely branched. The leaf bracts are rosy red; the floral bracts are chartreuse; and the petals of the tubular flowers are red to purple and are very long lasting (months). This slow-growing species loves sunshine and is drought tollerant. Xerographica grows epiphytically on trees and on rocks in dry areas in at elevations of 600 to 1,800 feet, where it hangs on the highest branches, to receive intense lighting. The plant is currently on the CITES list of endangered species. If you are starting a collection or simply want to add another masterpiece to your current collection this plant is a must! The name means dry painting. A much larger version of streptophylla, this impressive specimen has spiraling growth with leaves 12 to 18 inches long. Mount at an angle to prevent water from collecting in the crown and to fully enjoy its beautiful shape. If you give it more water the leaves will stay straighter, less water and they will curl up and look gnarly. It depends on what you like the look of.