Previously known as Tillandsia Ionantha var. Scaposa and then Tillandsia Kolbii, this air plant is now considered a separate species in its own right and is now called Tillandsia Scaposa.
Quick Guide
How To Care For Tillandsia Scaposa
Similar in appearance to the Tillandsia Ionantha varieties, Tillandsia Scaposa is a much-loved addition to any collection and is often mounted on wine corks or shells, or placed in a terrarium.
Although this species is small and compact and fits well in most globes and terrariums the tips of the leaves may dry out and turn brown if the plant does not receive enough air circulation.
Scaposas grow well indoors. Place the plant roughly 24″ from a window that receives bright indirect sunlight. If the window is opened regularly that will also help keep your air plants healthy.
How To Water Tillandsia Scaposa
Scaposa does not like high temperatures or humidity and can be prone to rotting due to its compact, curving, vertical nature. I like to soak mine once a week for about 20-30 minutes and mist occasionally during higher temperatures.
After soaking turn the plant upside down and gently shake off any excess water from the leaves. This helps to prevent rotting near the base of the plant.
Like the Tillandsia Ionantha varieties and hybrids, the tips of the leaves on Scaposa are prone to drying out and turning brown if the plant gets dehydrated. If this happens soak the plant overnight.
How To Propagate Tillandsia Scaposa
After blooming, Scaposa produces multiple pups and looks fantastic if left to grow into large clumps. A healthy plant may produce 4-5 pups/offsets, but 2-3 is more common.
If you prefer individual plants rather than large clumps, gently tease off each pup from the parent plant and mist them regularly for the next two weeks.
The pups are tiny at first and don’t like being handled so wait until the pup is at least a third of the size of the parent plant before removing.
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Flowers And Expert Tips
Just before Scaposa blooms the tips of the leaves turn a pinkish-red color. This is known as blushing and looks awesome. Sometimes the leaves blush red and yellow.
Shortly after blushing multiple vibrant purple blooms grow from the center of the plant. These stunning air plants are often found in garden centers because they’re easy to look after and the flowers look incredible.
To encourage Scaposa to bloom increase the amount of warmth, light, and moisture, and then keep your finger crossed.
Tillandsia Scaposa Hybrids
Identifying Scaposa hybrids is never going to be easy due to their similar appearance to the Tillandsia Ionantha varieties and hybrids. However, Scaposa’s taller curved upright leaves should help with identification.
Tillandsia Scaposa is found in Guatemala, Costa Rica, and Honduras, but not in Mexico. This may help with identification as well.
If you know of any Scaposa hybrids please let me know.
