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Tillandsia (abdita x brachycaulos)



Soft greyish green rosettes of leaves. Short bright red spikes of bracts spring blue flowers unexpectedly on the world. Central American forest dweller. In full sun, the upper leaves turn bright red. I got it originally as Tillandsia brachycaulos abdita but Plants of the World online accepts both species and the hybrid beteen the two is in wide circulation, so I am assuming that this is it.
It has survived for two years in an unheated greenhouse, which is very pleasing. This winter has given it a severe test, and it will take a while to determine if it has been damaged.

Thompson and Morgan say:

"Red-tinged pointed foliage adds a splash of colour and contemporary style to any home interior. This amazing air plant, Tillandsia brachycaulos x abdita, remains evergreen for year-round interest and is really easy to grow. Because it doesn’t require soil, it can be displayed in a wide range of ways, including terrariums, vases or slotted into notches in ornamental branches. Height: 40cm (16”). Spread: 30cm (12”)."



13th July 2006

20th July 2008 20th July 2008 20th October 2008

References:
  • Rauh, Werner -Bromeliads for Home, Garden and Greenhouse, Blandford Press edition 1979
  • Plants of the World online, https://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:253541-2 , accessed 08.01.2026.
  • Plants of the World online, https://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:124896-1 , accessed 08.01.2026.
  • Thompson and Morgan, https://www.thompson-morgan.com/p/tillandsia-brachycaulos-x-abdita/kb3484TM , accessed 08.01.2026.