Scientific Name Catopsis morreniana (Morren's plant with trailing appearance) 'White Form' syn. Tillandsia (Tillandz' plant)
Common Name Jungle Lantern
Origin Native to Costa Rica and Mexico
Description The Catopsis can grow and thrive in a pot, unlike many of the Tillandsiae it's so similar to. Just make sure it doesn't sit with soggy roots as it is still an epiphyte used to having a bit of air circulation around its feet! Catopsis grows in layers of long green leaves, which stack as they grow upwards to reach for the sun. This variety will also sprout white flowers from the middle of this fountain; keep it in a bright spot to encourage flowering, but make sure it doesn't dry out to keep those blooms as long as possible. Light Likes bright, indirect light; think of the dappled light you'd get in the branches of a tree. Water Water when the top two inches of soil are dry; this plant does not like having soggy roots!
Humidity This plant likes high humidity; think tropical rainforests, and if it's in a drier spot be sure to mist regularly or add a humidity tray.
Soil Make sure it's a well-draining or chunky mix for this epiphyte; a mix with added sand or bark would work well.
Food Fertilise in the growing season every four waters. Temperature Average household temperatures of about 15-30°C are perfect- make sure it doesn't drop below 15°C in winter.
Pet-safe Yes, but too much nibbling won't be good for pets, small humans or the plant!
Sprouts Top Tips Try to use rainwater or distilled water when misting if possible; tapwater, especially hard water, can leave traces of the chemicals in it on your plant (like the limescale on taps or in kettles).
We have launched our first (hopefully monthly) ‘Letter from the Founder’ blog post. I talk about a string of bad luck, from water gushing from various ceilings in my life to a break-in, and also reflect on the incredible work we have done to win two awards earlier this year. I look ahead to what’s coming up in August, projects we are working on with our clients, and some thoughts about the rest of the year. And I give an insight into my brain, why I am who I am and why I’m so thankful for all the opportunities, passion and excitement that running Sprouts has given me as a founder and as a woman.