Tillandsia Spotlight: Diaguitensis

Oct 7, 2019by Jamie Beck

A drought tolerant xeric air plant, the Tillandsia diaguitensis is a caulescent plant, which means that it grows along a stem. It is native to Brazil, Paraguay and northern Argentina. In the wild, it grows as a lithophyte on exposed rocks, in scrubby bushes, and will form large clusters. This Tillandsia is not very widespread in cultivation, so it is one of the rarer air plants.

Tillandsia diaguitensis air plant

The T. diaguitensis has stiff grayish green leaves that can be brittle, so take care when picking up or touching this plant! These plants bloom pretty infrequently, but when they do, they bloom large white flowers with a light citrus scent. The T.diaguitensis is a prolific propagator and will form clumps over time.

Tillandsia diaguitensis air plant

The T. diaguitensis is an easy species to care for as it can tolerate a variety of conditions and light levels. Keep your plant in a bright spot where it gets adequate air flow. These plants should be watered less than most air plants due to their xeric nature. The T. diaguitensis can grow to be 24 inches tall and 6 inches wide. The T. diaguitensis lends well to being anchored to a piece of cork bark or driftwood where it will have support as it grows.