Name: Tillandsia Secunda
SKU: AP025
Price: 50.00 ZAR
Availability: OutOfStock

Tillandsia Secunda

R50.00

Tillandsia secunda is a species of air plant found growing natively in Ecuador. It is an unusual air plant in many aspects, which is also what makes it a very interesting and worthwhile purchase for any plant lover!

Firstly, Tillandsia secunda grows very, very large. A well-developed adult can reach a width of about 50-60cm. With even bigger ones having been found in nature. Secondly, the plant throws out a long-stretching inflorescence that can attain a height of over 90cm. This inflorescence is long-lasting and blooms multiple, red flowers. Thirdly, Tillandsia secunda can be grown as a terrestrial plant. That is, the bromeliad can be potted in fast-draining soil, not only to support its size, but also to improve growth speed and success.

When growing T.secunda epiphytically ( bare root ) you need to ensure the plant is watered more frequently, and kept away from extended periods of direct sunlight.

After the plant has completed its flowering cycle, it will shoot out multiple pups from the spike. These little T.secundas should be left to develop to an adequate size before dividing.

And that’s it! What a wonderful species of Tillandsia. Get yours today.

Out of stock

Description

Tillandsia secunda is found growing naturally up at very high altitudes. This large-sized plant is easy to grow and divides itself generously. Floral bracts are red to violet, and bloom flowers that are several centimeters long. When grown as an bare-rooted air plant or epiphyte–it tends to stay smaller. To grow faster and larger, grow as a potted plant in a fast draining potting mix.

The spectacular inflorescence ( floral spike) is a sight not to be missed! The leaves are a silver-green in conditions, but can appear more gray if grown in drier regions. The leaves are grown in a rosette, and are long and arching. This plant looks like a smaller version of an Agave or Aloe Vera. The name ‘secunda’, meaning “one sided” is in reference to the way the flowers all are dorsally attached and face downward.

Water this one frequently, but ensure that no water sits in the base or rosette of the plant for too long. It does well in a shadier spot. When growing in a pot or soil, ensure it is an orchid mix of sorts. So a fast-draining medium like coarse bark, wood chips or a coconut husk mix.