Tillandsia Cyanea Plant-Care

Root Zone

• Tillandsia cyanea is an epiphyte, a plant that grows on the aerial part of other plants or on rock walls. It does not absorb moisture and nutrients from roots but needs to be firmly attached to a branch, wall or stone for support. Tillandsia cyanea needs small amounts of moisture at its base, so does well with sphagnum moss surrounding its base.

Light

• Deep-to-moderate shade under a tree outdoors provides the filtered light Tillandsia cyanea needs for growth and photosynthesis, although bright indoor light may suffice. Direct sunlight burns the leaves. They grow naturally under tropical canopies.

Air and Watering

• Temperatures between 70 and 85 degrees are ideal. Epiphytes absorb water through specialized crystals on their leaves and should not be handled to avoid damaging these delicate crystals. They are indigenous to areas with high humidity and must be misted every two to three days to simulate this condition. Growing them near kitchen sinks or in bathrooms helps provide for some of their humidity needs.

Fertilization

• Since Tillandsia cyanea does not absorb nutrients through roots, it needs foliar food. However, the food must be even more dilute than the recommended dose. Use an organic fertilizer with low copper. Dilute to 1/4 the recommended strength and fertilize no more than once per month.