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Tillandsia brachycaulos (Tillandsia brachycaulos)

Description

Tillandsia brachycaulos is a species in the genus Tillandsia. It is native to Mexico, Central America, and Venezuela. Tillandsia is a genus of around 650 species of evergreen, perennial flowering plants in the family Bromeliaceae, native to the forests, mountains and deserts of northern Mexico and south-eastern United States, Mesoamerica and the Caribbean to mid Argentina.They have naturally been established in diverse environments such as equatorial tropical rain forests, high elevation Andes mountains, rock dwelling (saxicolous) regions, and Louisiana swamps, such as Spanish Moss (T. usneoides), a species that grows atop tree limbs. Airplant is a common name for plants in this genus. Most Tillandsia species are epiphytes – which translates to 'upon a plant'. Some are aerophytes or air plants, which have a minimal root system and grow on shifting desert soil. Generally, the thinner-leafed varieties grow in rainy areas and the thick-leafed varieties in areas more subject to drought. Most species absorb moisture and nutrients through the leaves from rain, dew, dust, decaying leaves and insect matter, aided by structures called trichomes. The species under the Tillandsia genera exhibit a multitude of physiological and morphological differences making this genus an excellent example of diversity. Having native habitats that vary from being epiphytic and saxicolous, species have certain adaptations, such as root systems designed to anchor to other plants or substrates, and modified trichomes for water and nutrient intake Leaf rosettes, which is a common physical characteristic in Tillandsia species, function as a source of nutrients, water, and as a water and humus-gathering organ. Floral characteristics typically involve bright, vibrant colours, with either blooms or inflorescence being produced on a stalk. The colour varies between red, yellow, purple and pink, which helps attract pollinators. These colour variations can also occur on the air plants' foliage during its blooming season. Common pollinators of this genera include moths, hummingbirds and, more recently recognized, bats. Air plants are growing rapidly in popularity as a low maintenance household plant. Due to their minimal root system and other adaptations, they generally do not require frequent watering, no more than four times a week, allowing the plant to completely dry before watering again. The amount of light required depends on the species; overall, air plants with silver dusting and stiff foliage will require more sunlight than air plants with softer foliage. Plants are commonly seen mounted, placed in a terrarium, or simply placed in seashells as decorative pieces.

Taxonomic tree

  • Domain: Eukarya

    • Kingdom: Plantae

      • Phylum:

        • Class: Liliopsida

          • Order: Poales

            • Family: Bromeliaceae

              • Genus: Tillandsia