Scientific Name Tillandsia cyanea (Tillandz' sky-blue plant)
This plant has recently been reclassified into a new genus of Bromeliads. Its new scientific name is Wallindsia cyanea.
Common Name Pink Quill, Fan Flower, Blue Flowered Torch
Origin Originates in Ecuador
Description This variety of Tillandsia can grow and thrive in a pot, unlike its more airy cousins. 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! Like the other air plants, it grows in layers of green spikes, but this variety stands out because of the bright pink quill-shaped bract in the centre of the foliage. This variety will also occasionally sprout purple flowers from the quill; keep it in a bright spot to encourage flowering. This plant doesn't need repotting too frequently, so we'd recommend keeping it in a heavier cover pot to stop it getting too top-heavy! 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! Make sure it doesn't dry out too much as this can make it less likely to flower.
Humidity Average humidity is fine for this plant; mist occasionally if it's in a particularly dry place. 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 This slow-growing plant doesn't need much fertilising; if you replenish the soil every year this should provide enough nutrients. If you want to add extra, feed it at the beginning of the growing season. 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 watering if possible; tapwater, especially hard water, can leave traces of the chemicals in it in your plant (like the limescale on taps or in kettles).
This plant doesn't need repotting too frequently, so we'd recommend keeping it in a heavier cover pot to stop it getting too top-heavy!
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.