Tillandsia cyanea

This makes rosettes of dark green leaves with an arching growth habit. They have red markings near their base. It is spring flowering when it produces warm violet flowers that are flattened. These are actually bracts. The true small but showy blue violet flowers peer out. General care: This is an epiphyte which means it grows on trees and other surfaces. The leaves are covered in fine silvery scales and are able to absorb moisture from the air. They like bright conditions but not direct sunlight. They should be sprayed each day with rainwater during the period late spring to the middle of autumn. They should also be given a special air plant feed once a month. In the winter they should be sprayed once or twice a week ensuring that moisture does not remain on the foliage. This needs a minimum temperature of 7C.