Tillandsia capitata 'Red' (Air Plant)

Tillandsia capitata 'Red' is the boldest of the capitata color forms, turning a deep, saturated red across the entire rosette as it comes into bloom. Where the standard capitata flushes green-gold or pale and 'Peach' goes to warm salmon tones, 'Red' intensifies all the way to a rich crimson-scarlet, one of the most vivid pre-bloom transformations you'll see in the Tillandsia world. The vivid red foliage and the emerging purple flowers at the center create a display that looks almost tropical even on a windowsill in Oregon.

Like all capitata selections, 'Red' is a medium to large grower with a wide, open rosette of arching, trichome-covered leaves. Soak weekly for 20 to 30 minutes in room-temperature water, then shake out any pooled moisture and allow it to dry completely within a few hours. Bright indirect light is key for achieving the most vivid red coloration as blooming approaches.

After the bloom cycle completes, expect two to four pups to develop at the base.