Tillandsia ionantha 'Rubra' is a compact evergreen air plant known for the striking colour change that occurs when it flowers. Its densely packed green leaves develop vivid red tones before tubular purple flowers emerge.

Like other tillandsias, it is an epiphyte and does not need conventional soil. Its small size makes it ideal for terrariums, mounted displays and collections of indoor air plants.

Key features

• Compact evergreen air plant
• Dense rosette of narrow green leaves
• Fine silvery scales, particularly towards the base
• Foliage turns bright red around flowering time
• Purple tubular flowers with yellow stamens
• Ideal for terrariums and indoor displays

Plant size

• Height: up to 10cm
• Spread: up to 10cm

Other common names

• Rubra air plant
• Blushing air plant
• Sky plant 'Rubra'

Flowers and foliage

The bright green foliage is covered with tiny silvery scales called trichomes. These help the plant absorb water and nutrients through its leaves.

As flowering approaches, the foliage develops its characteristic bright red blush. Purple flowers then emerge from narrow white bracts, usually during spring or summer.

How to grow Tillandsia ionantha 'Rubra'

• Grow in bright, indirect light
• Provide good humidity and air movement
• Do not plant in conventional potting soil
• Display on cork, branches or other suitable hardscape
• Suitable for well-ventilated terrariums
• Can also be grown in humid rooms such as kitchens and bathrooms

Watering your air plant

• Mist or soak the plant around two or three times each week
• Use rainwater where possible
• Shake off excess water after soaking
• Allow the plant to dry between waterings
• Adjust watering according to temperature and humidity

Growing in a terrarium

Tillandsia ionantha 'Rubra' is well suited to humid terrariums because of its compact size. Position it on branches, cork bark or other raised areas where air can circulate around the plant.

Do you want an air plant that changes appearance through the season? Tillandsia ionantha 'Rubra' combines a compact habit with red flowering foliage and contrasting purple blooms.