Tillandsia butzii (Air Plant)

Tillandsia butzii is one of the most unusual air plants in the genus. Its leaves are long, hollow, tubular, and covered in irregular dark purple-maroon spots and mottling over a green-grey base, giving the plant an almost otherworldly appearance. The leaves twist and curl outward and upward from a small, bulbous base, creating a form that people often describe as octopus-like. Native to Mexico and Panama, it grows in cloud forest conditions, clinging to branches in mist and humidity.

That cloud forest origin means butzii wants more humidity than most air plants. It thrives in bathrooms or kitchens where there is natural moisture in the air. Soak weekly for 20 to 30 minutes and supplement with light misting between waterings in dry conditions. Because of its bulbous base where water can collect, be especially careful to let it drain fully upside down after soaking. Avoid hot, dry indoor heating vents.

The bloom is as striking as the foliage: a branched inflorescence with purple bracts and small violet flowers emerges from the center.