Pink Quill

Botanical Name: Tillandsia cyanea

Pink Quill is a member of the bromeliad family, and gets its name from the plume of bright pink bracts that last for months.

Arching, narrow green leaves grow in a rosette with flower spikes appearing in summer. Its pink bracts are densely overlapping, with violet-blue flowers emerging for a brief show.

Matching the bromeliad care in your home with that of their native rainforest habitat will keep them healthy.

Tillandsias are epiphytes in their native Ecuador and have small roots, mainly used for anchoring themselves on trees. Because the roots don't drink up water, these tree-dwelling plants gather moisture and nutrients through their leaves.

This is the only bromeliad from the Tillandsia genus that can be grown in a pot. It prefers a loose, fir bark mix, such as an orchid mix or one specially labeled for bromeliads.

Plants will bloom when they reach maturity, usually in 2-3 years. Like other bromeliads, they'll bloom once then produce offsets. Propagating the offsets will allow you to enjoy a collection for many years.

Origin: Ecuador

Height: Newer dwarf cultivars only reach 10 in (25 cm) tall.

Light: Bright, indirect light

Water: Spray with water until leaves are thoroughly wet, 2-3 times a week. Do not soak base of plant.

Humidity: Moderate to high humidity. Brown tips on leaves are a result of dry air.

Temperature: Average room temperatures 60-75°F, 16-24°C

Soil: Orchid mix or fine-grade fir bark

Fertilizer: Feed once a month in spring and summer with a foliar fertilizer spray diluted to half strength.

Propagation: Remove offsets -- called pups -- that grow at the base of the plant when they are at least 3 in (7 cm) tall with a sharp knife and pot shallowly in fresh potting mix. They'll take about 3-6 months to root.