Tillandsia streptophylla (Air Plant)

Tillandsia streptophylla is one of the most dramatic and unusual air plants in cultivation, with thick, silvery leaves that curl and spiral in tight ringlets when dry and uncurl into broader sweeping arcs when the plant is well-hydrated. That constant movement makes it visually fascinating from week to week. It's a large species, eventually reaching six to eight inches across, with a fat, hollow base reminiscent of the tank-type bromeliads it's related to.

Native to Mexico, Guatemala, and Honduras, streptophylla is a xeric variety adapted to long dry spells. It actually prefers misting over soaking, as standing water in the base can cause rot. Give it bright light, strong air movement, and a thorough mist two or three times a week, allowing it to dry completely. Its heavy trichome coating, the white fuzz that gives the leaves their silver sheen, is what enables it to absorb humidity directly from the air.

At bloom time the plant flushes pink and sends up a striking paddle-shaped pink inflorescence with violet flowers.