Photograph by Bocabroms, distributed under a CC-BY-SA-3.0 license.
Tillandsia bulbosa
Common Name: Bulbous air plant
Family: Bromeliaceae
Genus: Tillandsia
Species: T. bulbosa
Leaf Color: Dark green
Flower Color: Violet
Height: 6-8″
Width: 3-5″
Lifespan: Several years
Watering: Mist two to three times weekly
Propagation: Seeds and pups
Natural Habitat: Central America, South America, and West Indies
Toxicity: Non-toxic
Tillandsia bulbosa Care
When growing Tillandsia bulbosa, care for it as you would with most other Tillandsias.
Watering
Tillandsia bulbosa should be watered about 2-3 times per week, or whenever the leaves start to look a bit wrinkled. The best way to water your Tillandsias is to mist them lightly with a spray bottle. You can also dunk them in a bowl of water for a few minutes, making sure to shake off any excess water afterwards.
Soil
Tillandsias do not need any soil to grow, as they get all the nutrients they need from the air. Planting them in soil may actually do more harm than good, as the soil can retain too much water and cause the Tillandsia to rot.
Lighting
Tillandsia bulbosa prefers bright, indirect sunlight. If you live in a very hot climate, it’s best to give them some afternoon shade to prevent the leaves from burning.
Temperature
Tillandsia bulbosa can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, from 60-80 degrees Fahrenheit.
Fertilizer
You can fertilize your Tillandsias every few weeks with a diluted solution of liquid fertilizer. Be sure to use a fertilizer that is specifically designed for Tillandsias, as other fertilizers can ruin the plant.
Tillandsia bulbosa Habitat
Tillandsia bulbosa is native to Central and South America, as well as the West Indies. In its natural habitat, it can be found growing on rocks and trees.
Tillandsia bulbosa Lifespan
Tillandsia bulbosa can live for several years with proper care. However, it will only flower once in its lifetime. After it flowers, the plant will die.
Tillandsia bulbosa Varieties
There are two different species of Tillandsia bulbosa:
- T. bulbosa guatemala: This variety is native to Guatemala and has dark green leaves.
- T. bulbosa belize: This variety is native to Belize and has large, light green leaves.
Propagating Tillandsia bulbosa
Tillandsia bulbosa can be propagated from seeds or pups. However seeds can be quite difficult making pups the preferred method.
Pups are small offsets that grow at the base of the mother plant. Once they are big enough, you can carefully remove them from the mother plant and pot them up on their own. Care for your pups as you would a mature Tillandsia bulbosa plant.
Tillandsia bulbosa Toxicity
Tillandsia bulbosa is non-toxic to humans and animals.