Pink Quill, Tillandsia cyanea, is a tropical bromeliad that does well in a pot or an air plant. They are easy to grow and add a bright burst of color to your home.
They are very low maintenance, and the blooms last a long time. When they reach full maturity, they will produce offsets, known as pups, that can be removed and propagated for more plants.
Light
In their native tropical rainforest, Pink Quills grow as epiphytic species on trees. They make great additions to any plant collection – not only do they look exotic but they can be grown in a pot, instead of secured to wood or wires.
Keeping a Pink Quill healthy and happy involves the right light conditions and watering. These plants can tolerate low levels of light but they are best placed in a room where it receives east or west exposure to maximize blooming and growth.
Pink Quills like warm temperatures (65degF – 75degF/18degC – 24degC) and medium humidity. Avoid placing them in colder climates or rooms with strong air conditioning as these conditions can cause the leaves to burn. They are also sensitive to chlorine in the water so use rainwater or filtered tap water only. Fertilize sparingly during the growing season with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength.
Water
Pink quill care revolves around two sources of water – the water in the rosette and the water absorbed by the roots through the potting soil. While this air plant doesn’t require as much water as most houseplants, it does need more frequent watering.
Keep in mind that Pink quill is sensitive to chlorine content in tap water, so if possible, use rainwater or distilled water. You should also avoid using water that is hard or too saline.
In its native Ecuador, this plant grows as an epiphytic species on trees. Because it doesn’t have a root system that requires drinking up water, it can be used as a decorative air plant.
Once established in a pot, a pink quill plant requires bright, indirect light to thrive. During winter, it will appreciate consistent indoor temperatures and should be kept away from cold drafts or heating vents. In addition to proper light and temperature, it will require frequent misting to maintain a healthy look and feel.
Fertilization
The process of fertilization involves a series of events that lead to the formation of a zygote (the embryo of a developing fetus) from haploid chromosome sets. These events include sperm penetration, activation of the egg membrane, fusion of the nuclei of the male and female gametes, and formation of the zygote.
A pink quill bromeliad is an easy houseplant to keep happy and healthy in your home provided you provide it with the correct lighting, water, and nutrients. To start, place your Pink Quill in a bright spot that gets plenty of natural light during the day.
This tropical native needs a temperature of 75 degrees Fahrenheit (24 degrees Celsius) to flower. If you have an indoor location that receives colder temperatures, you may need to move your plant closer to a windowsill or cover it with a thick blanket for the duration of the winter.
Temperature
If you are a fan of exotic plants with unique features, you should consider purchasing a Pink Quill plant. It is a South American native plant with multiple bracts that look like antique quills.
This beautiful plant is a great addition to any room. It is low maintenance and requires little attention other than regular watering.
The Pink Quill grows well in loamy, moist soil that drains freely. Choose a potting mix that contains perlite, humus or sand to keep the soil moist.
It is best to avoid tap water for this plant because it is sensitive to chlorine in water and can damage the leaves. Instead, use rainwater or distilled water to water your Pink Quill.
The Pink Quill can tolerate cold temperatures, but it needs a winter minimum of 15 degC (59 degF). However, it is not recommended to grow this tropical bromeliad outdoors in sub-zero weather. Move your Pink Quill indoors or in a cooler spot during the winter months.
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