ionantha mexican air plant Tillandsia ionantha v ionantha (Mexico, long form) – Cuffel Farms

ionantha mexican air plant Tillandsia ionantha v ionantha (Mexico, long form) – Cuffel FarmsOrigins: One of many forms found in Mexico Bloom: Typical ionantha bloom, although this clone is typically quite reluctant to bloom. Foliage turns red and plant produces purple tubular flowers from the crown of the plant Light: Strong indirect or filtered light, some direct light okay Water: Spray or dunk twice a week, allow to dry within 6 8 hours. Soak monthly to rehydrate up to 2 hours as necessary Tillandsia ionantha is one of the most diverse and

Origins: One of many forms found in Mexico

Bloom: Typical ionantha bloom, although this clone is typically quite reluctant to bloom.  Foliage turns red and plant produces purple tubular flowers from the crown of the plant

Light: Strong indirect or filtered light, some direct light okay

Water: Spray or dunk twice a week, allow to dry within 6-8 hours.  Soak monthly to rehydrate up to 2 hours as necessary

Tillandsia ionantha is one of the most diverse and widely distributed species in the genus.  They come in all different shapes and sizes, their environment helping to shape the unique qualities of each varietal and cultivar.  You will see dozens of names out in the market; some designed to make more money, but most to help differentiate all of the iniquities within this species.

Anyways, the correct name for this plant is T. ionantha v ionantha, but this name applies to ionanthas found from Mexico down to Nicaragua.  This particular plant grows grows quite long; I have several that are close to 12" now! That's not too say every plant will get that long, the fact that this trait isn't stable is part of the reason a plant like this isn't a good candidate for an actual cultivar name.  You will see plants just like this sold in the market as ionantha Monkey Tail.  Don't get too caught up with "nurserymen" names if you can avoid it; if you see a plant you like, buy it!