Tillandsia Funkiana
Tillandsia funkiana is a spectacular caulescent (stem-growing) air plant native to Venezuela. It is easily recognized by its twisting, needle-like leaves that grow along a central stem, giving it the appearance of a miniature pine branch or a prehistoric quill. When it blooms, it produces a single, brilliant neon-red flower that provides a stunning contrast to its silvery-green foliage.
This air plant is a clumping variety, meaning it will eventually grow into a beautiful hanging cluster of multiple stems. Because it is an epiphyte, it requires no soil—making it one of the most versatile plants for creative mounting on driftwood, stones, or hanging glass globes.
Light
▾Prefers bright, filtered sunlight. It can handle soft morning sun, which often helps the plant "blush" with color. Avoid harsh, direct midday sun which can dehydrate and burn the fine leaves.
Watering & Hydration
▾Misting: 2-3 times a week depending on humidity. Soaking: Submerge the plant in room-temperature water for 20-30 minutes once a week. **Crucial:** After soaking, shake the plant gently and place it upside down to ensure all water drains out from the leaf axils.
Growing Surface (No Soil)
▾**Do not plant in soil.** T. funkiana should be mounted on wood, cork, or placed in a decorative wire holder. If gluing, use a specialized floral adhesive; never use hot glue as it will kill the living plant tissue.
Feeding & Fertilization
▾Light feeders. Use a Bromeliad or Air Plant specific fertilizer at half-strength once a month. Add to your soaking water or misting bottle. Avoid fertilizers with copper, as it is toxic to Tillandsias.
Propagation & Clumping
▾T. funkiana is famous for producing "pups" (offsets) along its stem. You can leave them attached to create a massive, multi-headed specimen colony, or carefully separate them once they reach about 1/3 the size of the parent plant.
Black or Soft Base
▾This is rot caused by water sitting in the plant for too long. Ensure the plant dries within a few hours of watering and never leave it sitting in a saucer of water.
Leaves Curling Excessively
▾While the leaves are naturally curved, tight curling or "rolling" is a sign of dehydration. Give the plant a longer soak (1 hour) and increase misting frequency.
📋 Plant Specifications
| Botanical Name | Tillandsia funkiana |
| Common Name | Funk's Air Plant |
| Flower Color | Neon Red |
| Growth Habit | Caulescent / Clumping |
| Plant Type | Epiphyte (Air Plant) |
| Origin | Venezuela |
Size Details
1 Tillandsia Funkiana
Size:
(Plant sizes may vary slightly based on seasonal growth, individual plant characteristics, and current stock.)
Care Instructions
Difficulty: Easy
Light:
Water:
Growing Media:
Feeding & Fertilization:
Shipping & Delivery
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Replacement
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