Tillandsia ionantha 'Guatemala' (Air Plant)

Tillandsia ionantha 'Guatemala' is one of the most popular air plants in the world, and for good reason. It's small, tough, beautiful, and rewarding to grow. The plant forms a compact, spiky rosette of silver-green leaves covered in the fine trichomes characteristic of its genus. As it enters its bloom cycle, the inner leaves begin transforming to shades of pink and then brilliant red, creating a two-toned plant that's already spectacular before the purple flower spike even appears. The contrast between the red leaves and violet blooms is one of the more dramatic color displays in the houseplant world.

The Guatemala form is slightly larger and more robust than some other ionantha varieties, with good tolerance for varied light and humidity conditions. It readily produces pups after blooming, which makes it an excellent plant for building a collection: one plant becomes three, then six, then a whole display without spending another dollar.

Water by soaking in room-temperature water for 20 to 30 minutes once a week, then turn upside down and shake out excess water before returning to its spot. It can bloom multiple times a year under good conditions. Non-toxic to pets and children, easy to gift, and endlessly varied in how it can be displayed.