Species

Often classified as Racinaea abbreviata. It is a mesic species with soft green leaves forming a tank or rosette. It requires different care than typical gray Tillandsias.

A medium-sized species with stiff, recurved gray-green leaves. It produces a colorful, long-lasting pink inflorescence with yellow-green flowers.

Tillandsia acuminata is a bromeliad in the genus Tillandsia, native to Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru. It is an epiphytic species with elongated, narrow leaves that taper to a fine point, and produces a spike inflorescence with small tubular flowers.

Tillandsia aequatorialis is a medium-sized epiphytic bromeliad in the family Bromeliaceae. It produces rosettes of narrow, silvery-grey leaves covered with trichomes, and bears inflorescences with tubular flowers. The species is adapted to seasonally dry environments at moderate to high elevations.

Aechmea aguadocensis is a bromeliad species in the family Bromeliaceae, native to South America. It is an epiphytic or terrestrial plant forming a rosette of strap-shaped leaves with spiny margins. The inflorescence bears small flowers typical of the genus Aechmea.

Tillandsia aguascalientensis is a small to medium-sized epiphytic bromeliad in the family Bromeliaceae. It is a xeric type with silvery-gray leaves densely covered in trichomes, forming a compact rosette. The leaves are narrow and slightly recurved. It produces an inflorescence with pink to violet bracts and violet flowers.

One of the smallest known Tillandsia species, belonging to subgenus Diaphoranthema. Leaves are subsucculent, grey-blue, reaching a maximum of approximately 2 cm in length. Plants form small tufts of a few centimeters in diameter. Self-pollinating species that produces small brown flowers in spring. Native to dry, sunny habitats in the southern Andes.

Tillandsia albertiana is a small, clump-forming bromeliad native to northwestern Argentina. It produces narrow, silvery-green leaves covered in trichomes, arranged alternately along the stem. The species bears vivid red three-petaled flowers that emerge directly from the leaf axils without a visible peduncle.

Caulescent, branched, polycarpic species forming caespitose colonies. Plants reach 35 to 80 cm in height at flowering. Leaves are densely polystichous, narrowly triangular, long-attenuate, and densely covered with pale cinereous trichomes. The inflorescence is terminal with bright red scape bracts. Flowers are greenish-white with pale green sepals. Endemic to a limited number of canyons in northeastern Mexico within the Sierra Madre Oriental.

Tillandsia alfredo-laui is a small to medium-sized epiphytic bromeliad in the family Bromeliaceae. It forms a compact rosette of narrow, silvery-gray leaves densely covered in trichomes, a morphological trait characteristic of xeric Tillandsia species. The leaves are rigid and slightly channeled. The inflorescence is short, bearing tubular flowers. The species was named in honor of Alfred Lau, a collector known for his work on succulent plants in Mexico.

Recently described species from Peru. Soft-leaved epiphyte found in wet montane forests.

Tillandsia alvareziae is a small to medium-sized epiphytic bromeliad in the family Bromeliaceae. It produces a rosette of silvery-green leaves densely covered with trichomes, characteristic of xeric-type Tillandsia. The inflorescence bears pink to red bracts with violet flowers.

Aechmea ampla is a bromeliad species in the family Bromeliaceae, native to South America. It produces broad, strap-shaped leaves with serrated margins that form a rosette capable of holding water in its central tank. The inflorescence is compound, bearing bracts and small flowers typical of the genus.

Tillandsia andicola is a small, tufted epiphytic bromeliad native to the Andean regions of South America. It forms dense rosettes of narrow, silvery-gray leaves covered in trichomes, typical of xeric-type Tillandsia. The plant produces small flowers that may be violet or purple in color. It is adapted to high-altitude environments with intense solar radiation, low temperatures, and significant diurnal temperature fluctuations.

A small species forming a distinctive spherical rosette of fine, needle-like green leaves radiating outward from a central point, typically 7 to 10 cm in diameter. Predominantly saxicolous, growing on cliff faces, and rarely epiphytic. Produces a single large tubular red flower from the center of the rosette. Leaves may blush orange to red prior to flowering. Taxonomically close to T. funckiana, sharing similar growth form and flower morphology.

Tillandsia andreettae is a small epiphytic bromeliad in the family Bromeliaceae, native to the Andes of Ecuador. It forms a rosette of narrow, silvery leaves densely covered with trichomes, a morphology typical of xeric Tillandsia species adapted to periodic drought. The inflorescence is short, bearing pink to red bracts from which tubular violet to purple flowers emerge.

Tillandsia andrieuxii is a xeric epiphytic bromeliad in the family Bromeliaceae, native to Mexico. It forms a compact rosette with rigid, silvery-grey leaves densely covered in trichomes that absorb moisture and nutrients from the atmosphere. The species produces an inflorescence bearing small tubular flowers. As a silver-leaved species, it is well adapted to semi-arid environments with high light intensity and low rainfall.

Tillandsia angulosa is an epiphytic bromeliad in the family Bromeliaceae, native to Central America and northern South America. It is a small to medium-sized species characterized by stiff, angular leaves densely covered with silvery trichomes, producing a gray-green coloration typical of xeric Tillandsia species. The leaves are arranged in a rosette with a notably angular cross-section, which is reflected in the species epithet 'angulosa' (Latin for 'angular'). It produces a simple or branched inflorescence bearing tubular flowers.

A Peruvian species with soft, green leaves that form a loose rosette. The floral bracts are often brightly colored.

Native to Colombia and Ecuador, growing terrestrially or on rocks in rainforest at around 1800 m.

Tillandsia areiensis is a small to medium-sized epiphytic bromeliad in the family Bromeliaceae, native to Central America. It forms a rosette of narrow, stiff leaves densely covered with trichomes, giving the foliage a silvery-gray appearance typical of xeric Tillandsia species. The inflorescence produces pink to red bracts with violet to purple flowers.

Often confused with T. fuchsii, the true T. argentea has a branching inflorescence, clear leaf sheaths, and produces bright red flowers. Forms a small, grassy tuft.

A rare species with a pseudobulbous base and relatively smooth leaves. It is related to T. pruinosa but has distinct glabrous or sparsely lepidote foliage.

Tillandsia arpocalyx is a small to medium-sized epiphytic bromeliad in the family Bromeliaceae, native to Mexico. It forms a compact rosette of narrow, silvery leaves densely covered with trichomes. The inflorescence produces tubular flowers characteristic of the genus Tillandsia.

A lithophytic species with a compact rosette of tapering leaves. It is native to high-altitude rocky regions.

An epiphytic species native to the regions around Lake Atitlan. It features soft, greenish leaves and a tall flower spike.

Tillandsia atroviolacea is an epiphytic bromeliad in the family Bromeliaceae, native to Mexico. It is a medium-sized xeric species forming a rosette of stiff, recurved leaves densely covered with silvery trichomes. Under high light conditions, the foliage develops a deep violet to dark purple coloration, which is reflected in the species epithet 'atroviolacea', derived from the Latin 'atro-' (dark) and 'violaceus' (violet). The inflorescence bears tubular flowers typical of the genus.

Tillandsia atroviridipetala is a xeric bromeliad species in the genus Tillandsia, characterized by its dark green petals, which is reflected in its specific epithet meaning 'dark green petals.' It forms a rosette of stiff, silvery-gray leaves covered in trichomes, and produces a spike inflorescence with distinctive dark green to nearly black petals, which is unusual within the genus.

Tillandsia aurea is an epiphytic bromeliad in the family Bromeliaceae, native to Ecuador and Peru. It is a medium-sized xeric species with narrow, recurved leaves densely covered in trichomes, giving the foliage a silvery-gray appearance. The leaves form a spreading rosette. The specific epithet 'aurea' derives from the Latin for 'golden,' referring to the yellow flower color.

Tillandsia australis is a lithophytic and epiphytic bromeliad native to southern South America. It produces narrow, linear leaves covered with dense silver-gray trichomes, forming a loose rosette. The leaves are stiff and grass-like in texture. The inflorescence is a simple or branched spike bearing tubular flowers that are violet to purple in color. This species tolerates cold temperatures, including light frost, and is adapted to exposed, high-light environments at varying altitudes.

Tillandsia azuayensis is a bromeliad species in the genus Tillandsia, native to the Azuay Province of Ecuador. It is a small to medium-sized epiphytic species with silvery-grey leaves covered in trichomes, characteristic of xeric-type tillandsias. The leaves are narrow and form a rosette habit. It produces inflorescences with tubular flowers.

Tillandsia baliophylla is an epiphytic bromeliad in the family Bromeliaceae, native to Mexico. It is a small to medium-sized xeric species forming a compact rosette of narrow, arching leaves densely covered in silvery trichomes. The trichome layer gives the foliage a silver-gray appearance and functions to reflect intense solar radiation and absorb atmospheric moisture. Inflorescences are simple or branched, bearing tubular flowers typical of the genus.

Tillandsia balsasensis is a xeric bromeliad species in the family Bromeliaceae. It is a small to medium-sized epiphytic or lithophytic plant characterized by silvery-gray leaves densely covered with trichomes (specialized scales that absorb moisture and nutrients from the air). The leaves are narrow, stiff, and recurved, forming a rosette typical of xeric Tillandsia species. It produces tubular flowers, though detailed floral morphology documentation for this species is limited.

A miniature species with stiff, gray, distichous leaves growing in a fan shape. It produces fragrant blue to violet flowers and forms spherical clumps.

Tillandsia barrosoae is a bromeliad in the family Bromeliaceae, endemic to northeastern Mexico. It is a xeric species with narrow, recurved leaves densely covered in trichomes, giving the foliage a silvery-gray coloration. The leaves form a compact rosette, and the plant produces an inflorescence bearing tubular flowers.

Distributed from the southeastern USA to Mexico. A grassy species with thin, filiform leaves that grows in clumps. It prefers humid habitats like swamps and hammocks.

Tillandsia bella is a small epiphytic bromeliad endemic to Bolivia. It forms a distichous rosette of triangular, silvery-trichome-covered leaves. The inflorescence is a simple or occasionally branched spike bearing pink to red bracts and violet tubular flowers. It is a xeric species adapted to dry inter-Andean environments.

Tillandsia belloensis is a small to medium-sized epiphytic bromeliad in the family Bromeliaceae, endemic to Guatemala. It forms a compact rosette of narrow, silvery-gray leaves densely covered in trichomes. The inflorescence bears pink to red bracts with violet to purple tubular flowers.

Tillandsia bergiana is a terrestrial or saxicolous bromeliad native to Argentina. It forms dense clumps of narrow, channeled leaves densely covered in silvery-gray trichomes, classifying it as a xeric species. The leaves are stiff and linear, reaching up to approximately 30 cm in length. It produces an erect, simple or occasionally branched spike bearing bright red bracts and violet to purple tubular flowers.

Tillandsia bermejoensis is a saxicolous bromeliad endemic to Bolivia. It forms compact rosettes of narrow, stiff leaves densely covered with trichomes, giving the plant a silvery-grey coloration typical of xeric Tillandsia species. The inflorescence bears pink to red bracts with violet flowers.

Tillandsia bernalensis is a small to medium-sized epiphytic bromeliad in the family Bromeliaceae, endemic to Oaxaca, Mexico. It forms a compact rosette of narrow, silvery-gray leaves densely covered in trichomes. The inflorescence bears tubular flowers typical of the xeric Tillandsia group. It is adapted to arid and semi-arid conditions with a pronounced dry season.

Tillandsia beutelspacheri is a medium to large epiphytic bromeliad in the family Bromeliaceae, native to Mexico. The leaves are elongated and silver-green, densely covered with trichomes that reflect light and reduce water loss. The inflorescence is compound and branched, bearing violet to purple flowers. It is classified as a xeric-type Tillandsia, adapted to seasonally dry conditions with well-developed trichomes for atmospheric moisture absorption.

A green-leaved mesic species from the wettest tropical habitats. Forms rosettes of silver-green leaves and produces violet flowers. Requires higher humidity than many common Tillandsia species. Best grown in greenhouse or terrarium conditions.

A small saxicolous or epiphytic species from Mexico. It has succulent, tapering leaves and forms clumps.

A rare epiphytic species native to the high Andes of Ecuador. Information in cultivation is limited.

Tillandsia boliviana is a bromeliad species in the family Bromeliaceae, native to Bolivia and surrounding Andean regions. It forms rosettes of narrow, silvery-green leaves covered in trichomes, which aid in water and nutrient absorption. It produces a spike inflorescence with tubular flowers.

Native to Bolivia, this species is adapted to drier inter-Andean valleys. It features trichome-covered leaves to retain moisture.

A striking species from Peru, known for its large size and pink floral bracts. It grows on rock faces or trees.

A species native to Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil, described as new to science in 2013. It is morphologically most similar to Tillandsia didisticha.

A species native to the states of Durango and Sinaloa in the Sierra Madre Occidental of Mexico, growing epiphytically in pine-oak forests. Described in 2007. Related species include Tillandsia carloshankii, Tillandsia prodigiosa, and Tillandsia macrochlamys.

Native to Veracruz, Mexico. It forms a tank-type rosette with green leaves that can turn reddish in strong light.

A large, impressive species from the mountains of Mexico. It features a large rosette of silver-gray leaves and a tall, branched inflorescence.

A small lithophytic species from Argentina. It grows in clumps on rock walls and has gray, lepidote leaves.

Often classified as Racinaea brevilingua. A small species from the Andes with soft, green leaves, adapted to cool, cloud forest environments.

A small epiphytic species native to Colombia and Ecuador. Often classified under the genus Racinaea, it has soft, green leaves and prefers cool, moist environments.

Endemic to the high Andes of Colombia. This species resembles Tillandsia turneri but is smaller, growing in sub-paramo vegetation.

A tank-type epiphyte native to the northern Andes, often reclassified as Racinaea buseri. It has broad, green leaves and inhabits cloud forests.

A small to medium-sized pseudobulbous green-leaved (mesic) species described by Mez in 1935. The leaves are few, soft, long, and sinuous, emerging from a conspicuously swollen pseudobulbous base. The leaf blades are thin, hard, and involute in the upper portion, characteristically mottled with dark brown or reddish-brown irregular markings on a green background. The inflorescence is a slender spike borne on a thin, erect scape, with bright red bracts and tubular blue-violet to purple flowers. The species is myrmecophytic; in its natural habitat, symbiotic ants nest within the broadened leaf bases of the pseudobulb. It grows as an epiphyte, often forming large colonies in humid montane forests from central Mexico to Panama. A variety with pinkish flowers, var. roseiflora, has been described.

A saxicolous species from Guerrero, Mexico. It has thick, succulent, gray leaves that form a bulbous base and a striking red inflorescence.

Tillandsia cacticola is a silvery-leaved epiphytic bromeliad native to Peru. It typically grows on cacti and other xerophytic plants in arid environments. It produces a branched inflorescence with lavender to pale purple flowers and distinctive inflated bracts.

Known for its sweetly fragrant, purple flowers. A small, caulescent species with silver-gray leaves, native to the dry forests of Ecuador and Peru.

Endemic to Peru. It is a saxicolous or epiphytic species with gray-lepidote leaves, producing a red floral spike.

Endemic to Mexico. An epiphytic species with a rosette of gray-green leaves and a pink inflorescence, found in dry forests.

A small, clump-forming species native to Bolivia and Argentina. It has brownish-gray leaves and produces fragrant, brown-spotted yellow flowers.

A large epiphytic species native to Mexico. It features a rosette of wide, green leaves and produces a colorful, branched inflorescence.

Native to Mexico and Guatemala. A robust species with soft, gray-green leaves forming a dense rosette, often turning reddish before blooming.

Historically treated as a species but often considered a synonym or variety of Tillandsia fasciculata. It shares the characteristic stiff, gray leaves and colorful spikes.

A striking species from Oaxaca, Mexico. It has a large rosette of flexible, sub-glabrous leaves and a densely branched, colorful inflorescence.

Endemic to Colombia. This species inhabits cloud forests and is characterized by its thin leaves and specific floral structure.

A saxicolous species from the dry valleys of Bolivia. It has stiff, gray, lepidote leaves and grows in clumps on rocks.

Native to Central America. A large epiphyte with soft, green leaves covered in fine scales, producing a tall, branched inflorescence.

Tillandsia capillaris is a small, highly variable epiphytic bromeliad distributed across a wide range in South America. It has very slender, hair-like silvery leaves and produces small, tubular flowers. It commonly grows in large clusters on trees, cacti, and rocks.

Endemic to Mexico. It forms a rosette of gray, lepidote leaves and produces a simple, flattened inflorescence with yellow flowers.

One of the most widespread and commonly cultivated Tillandsia species, named for its resemblance to the serpentine hair of the mythological Medusa. Features thick, channeled leaves up to 25 cm long that twist and curl from an inflated pseudobulb base. The bulbous base often hosts ant colonies in the wild. Native from Mexico through Central America, distributed from sea level to 2,400 meters. Produces red inflorescences with violet tubular flowers. A silver-leaved species adapted to drought conditions.

Native to Bolivia. It resembles T. vernicosa but differs in floral details. The leaves are stiff and gray, adapted to seasonally dry habitats.

A large tank-type epiphytic bromeliad with countless narrow, silvery gray leaves and a tall inflorescence with bright red bracts bearing long, ribbon-like tips. It is native to high-elevation oak-pine forests in southern Mexico. The species has been the subject of ecological research regarding its host preferences and arthropod communities.

An endemic species from Chiapas, Mexico, characterized by a unique rosette with drooping lower leaves and semi-erect upper leaves, producing a digitate inflorescence.

Tillandsia carminea is a small epiphytic bromeliad native to Ecuador and Peru. It produces narrow, silver-scaled leaves and vivid carmine-red floral bracts with tubular violet flowers, making the inflorescence visually distinctive.

A relatively large species native to the Andean regions of Peru and Bolivia, found growing epiphytically or lithophytically.

This species is native to the Venezuelan state of Miranda, growing at an elevation of 2300m.

Tillandsia caulescens is a caulescent (stem-forming) epiphytic bromeliad native to South America. It develops an elongated stem bearing small, silver-scaled leaves arranged alternately, and produces a simple spike inflorescence with tubular flowers.

Tillandsia cauliflora is a small epiphytic bromeliad native to South America. It is characterized by its caulescent growth habit and produces flowers along the stem. The leaves are narrow and covered with silver scales.

Tillandsia cauligera is an epiphytic bromeliad native to Peru. It is a caulescent species with elongated stems and narrow, silver-scaled leaves. The inflorescence is a simple spike bearing tubular flowers.

Tillandsia celata is a small epiphytic bromeliad native to Brazil. It belongs to the green-leaved (mesic) group and typically grows in humid forest environments. The leaves are soft and green, arranged in a rosette.

Tillandsia cereicola is a small to medium-sized epiphytic bromeliad native to South America. As the name suggests, it is commonly found growing on columnar cacti (Cereus and related genera). It has silver-scaled, narrow leaves typical of xeric species.

Tillandsia cernua is a small epiphytic bromeliad native to Mexico and Central America. It has narrow, recurved leaves covered with silver trichomes and produces a simple inflorescence with small tubular flowers. The species name 'cernua' refers to the nodding or drooping habit of the inflorescence.

Tillandsia cerosa is a small to medium-sized epiphytic bromeliad native to South America. It has narrow, silvery leaves forming a compact rosette. The inflorescence produces distichous (two-ranked) floral bracts with tubular flowers.

Tillandsia cerrateana is an epiphytic bromeliad native to Peru. It belongs to the xeric group and is characterized by its dense trichome coverage giving the leaves a silvery appearance. The species was described from specific localities in Peru.

Tillandsia chaetophylla is an epiphytic bromeliad native to South America. It is characterized by very slender, thread-like (chaetophyllous) leaves densely covered with trichomes. It typically forms clumps on trees and shrubs.

Tillandsia chalcatzingensis is an epiphytic bromeliad native to Mexico, specifically described from the Chalcatzingo area of Morelos state. It is adapted to seasonally dry conditions and features silvery trichome-covered leaves.

Tillandsia champaraensis is an epiphytic bromeliad native to Peru, described from the Champará area. It has characteristics typical of Andean xeric tillandsias, with silvery leaves and adaptations to dry montane environments.

Tillandsia chapalillaensis is an epiphytic bromeliad native to Mexico, described from the Chapalilla area of Nayarit state. It has narrow, trichome-covered leaves adapted to seasonally dry tropical forests.

Tillandsia chartacea is an epiphytic bromeliad native to Ecuador and Peru. Its name derives from the papery texture ('chartacea' means paper-like) of its floral bracts. It has green to grayish leaves and produces a distinctive flattened inflorescence.

A saxicolous species with very thick leaves covered with dense silver trichomes and extremely heavy, wire-like roots for anchoring to rocks. It resembles T. lorentziana but is distinguished by green floral bracts and larger white flowers. The floral bracts are erect, lance-like, acuminate, approximately 2.5 cm long and 6 mm wide, green with scattered white lepidote scales. Petals are white, approximately 4 cm long.

Tillandsia circinnatioides is an epiphyte endemic to south-central Mexico (Puebla, México, Guerrero, Oaxaca), growing on cacti, trees, and shrubs in dry areas at 600–1500 m.

Tillandsia clavigera occurs in Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, and Venezuela. In central Peru it grows as a rupicolous plant on steep rocks at about 2400 m.

An epiphytic species endemic to Bolivia, described by E. Gross and Rauh. It forms large clumps with rooting stems 3 to 6 cm long spreading abundantly from the base. Single rosettes grow to 17 cm high with approximately 10 leaves forming an 8 cm high, 10 cm diameter rosette. The leaf sheath is indistinct, approximately 2 cm high and 1.5 cm wide, pale violet in color, glabrous on the upper surface and densely lepidote beneath. Flowers have bluish violet petals with white at the base.

A saxicolous, pulvinate species, often branched, with stout brown roots. Flowering height is 10 to 15 cm, with a caulescent stem longer than the rosette, up to 13 cm long. The rosette is up to 7 cm in diameter with 12 to 14 polystichous leaves, 3 to 7 cm long. Leaves are coriaceous to sub-succulent with an asymmetric keel, green-grey, covered with appressed cinereous scales. Named after Australian bromeliad enthusiast Len Colgan. Related to T. friesii and T. hegeri but distinguished by stem length, inflorescence structure, and violet petals.

Tillandsia comarapaensis is endemic to Bolivia (Dpto. Santa Cruz), described from near Comarapa. It grows in dry thorn scrub at about 1700–1850 m elevation.

An epiphytic species with rigid, leathery leaves of pale greenish color. The inflorescence is more robust than related species, with flowers larger than the rachis and broadly suborbicular floral bracts. Distinguished from T. makoyana by its green rather than grey coloration, shorter but wider leaves, and white flowers with a slightly open throat rather than violet flowers with a closed throat. Formally described by R. Ehlers in 2006.

An epiphytic bromeliad that grows a rosette of broad, straplike leaves often intensely mottled with red. It produces a large, pendulous red inflorescence. The plant has a dense rosette structure with silvery-green leaves covered in tiny scales that assist moisture absorption. Widespread but not common in cloud forests along the Andes.

A natural hybrid between T. complanata and T. ionochroma, described by Werner Rauh in 1977. The leaves are green with violet spots. The plant produces several axillary arching inflorescences similar to T. complanata, but with bipinnate and narrow cylindric spikes. Found growing at 2800 m in cloud forest environments.

An acaulescent epiphytic species, 12 to 25 cm tall, with a spreading rosette of many pale green leaves, often streaked or spotted with purple-red. It produces multiple inflorescences from the leaf axils. Petals are ligulate, approximately 2 cm long, and rose, purple, or blue in color. The capsule is slenderly cylindric and acute, 4 cm long.

Tillandsia comulcoensis is a saxicolous species endemic to Puebla, Mexico, growing on rocks near the Río Comulco at around 2000 m elevation.

A medium-sized mesic species approximately 25 cm tall, found in montane forests. The gray-green leaves sometimes tint reddish in strong light. The inflorescence is branched with bright red-orange scape bracts and reddish floral bracts coated with a waxy powder, bearing purple flowers. Described by Andre in 1888.

Tillandsia cossonii is recorded from high-elevation localities in Mexico, including Guerrero (Puerto del Gallo, ~2700 m) and Colima (Nevado de Colima, ~2500 m).

A species endemic to Bolivia, belonging to subgenus Diaphoranthema. It was described in 1984, with the type specimen collected in 1979 from the mountains near Cotagaita in the Potosi Department. Grows epiphytically on Oreocereus neocelsianus cacti in association with T. caliginosa.

Tillandsia crista-galli is an epiphyte endemic to Chiapas, Mexico, near the Guatemalan border. The type was collected between Motozintla and Tapachula at about 1800 m in the wet tropical biome.

Tillandsia cryptopoda is an epiphyte found in Honduras, El Salvador, and Nicaragua, growing in forest at 1500–2350 m elevation.

Tillandsia curvifolia is endemic to Guanajuato, Mexico, growing at 2200–2400 m in oak forest on rocky outcrops and hillsides. Originally described as T. tortilis subsp. curvifolia; some authors place it in the segregate genus Viridantha.

This species is native to Colombia, Venezuela, Ecuador, and Peru, growing terrestrially or as an epiphyte in forests at elevations of 2000-3400m.

Native to the state of Oaxaca in Mexico, this species grows epiphytically in oak, pine and tropical deciduous forests at elevations of 1730 to 1960 m. The specific epithet refers to its bicolorous petals.

A rare lithophytic bromeliad endemic to the southern Espinhaço Range in Minas Gerais, Brazil. Forms rosettes with narrow leaves and produces compound inflorescences with orange-yellow flowers. Named after botanist Apparicio P. Duarte. Originally described as Cryptanthus duartei.

Known from Narino in southern Colombia, growing on trees in forest at 2000 m on the eastern slopes of the Cordillera of Pasto. The species is known only from the type collection.

This species is distributed in the Ancash region of Peru, growing on steep rock walls at elevations of 500 to 2500 m.

A large, variable, tank-forming species lacking discernible stems. Leaves are arranged in a rosette, leathery, grey-green with a waxy coating, 30 to 80 cm in length, forming basal cups that hold water and detritus. The inflorescence is a panicle of spikes shorter than the leaves, with bright red bracts and violet to white flowers. A highly variable species with multiple recognized varieties. In the southeastern United States (Florida), populations are threatened by the invasive Mexican bromeliad weevil (Metamasius callizona).

A medium-sized stemless species forming a dense, rounded rosette of numerous fine, thread-like leaves approximately 7 cm in length. The species name means "thread-leaved." Leaf sheaths are grape-violet to chestnut-colored with small, dispersed trichomes. The inflorescence is bipinnate with many slender spikes bearing small flowers with violet petals. Grows as an epiphyte in seasonally dry tropical forests.

Occurs in Cundinamarca and Valle in Colombia and in Loja in Ecuador, growing as an epiphyte in forest and on paramo between 1800 and 3300 m.

Distinctive caulescent (stem-forming) air plant with needle-like leaves resembling small pine branches. Produces spectacular scarlet-red tubular flowers. Forms long, draping clumps over time. Named after Belgian botanist Nicolas Funck.

Native to Cochabamba in Bolivia, where it is known from the area between Tarata and Capinota. It grows on rocks at 2,560-2,600 m elevation.

Native to Colima, Guanajuato, Jalisco and Michoacan in Mexico, growing epiphytically in tropical deciduous and oak forests at elevations of 680 to 1,850 m.

Occurs in Cotopaxi, Tungurahua, Bolivar and Chimborazo in Ecuador, growing terrestrially between 2400 and 3000 m in gorges, along roadsides and on the clay walls used to divide fields. The species is named in honour of Nancy Groves.

A caulescent lithophytic species that grows on rocks. It features a distinct star-shaped rosette with stiff, trichome-covered leaves. It often forms large mats in its native habitat.

Native to Tungurahua and Napo in Ecuador, this species grows on moist cliffs at elevations of 1100 to 1500 m. The type specimen was collected along the Rio Pastaza near Banos.

This species is native to Honduras, growing on steep rock walls within pine forests at an elevation of 1800m.

Found in the state of Guerrero, Mexico, where it grows as an epiphyte on oaks at elevations of 1300 to 1600 m. The specific epithet honours Ilse Zecher, who first recognised the species in the field.

This species is native to Colombia and Ecuador, growing terrestrially, on rocks, or as an epiphyte in sunny habitats at elevations of 500-3200m.

A popular small epiphytic species that forms compact rosettes. The leaves turn vivid red during the blooming cycle, producing purple tubular flowers. It clumps readily over time.

Occurs in Ecuador and Peru, growing as an epiphyte in woodland at elevations of 2,300 to 3,900 m.

This species is widely distributed from Mexico through the Greater Antilles to Bolivia, growing terrestrially or epiphytically at elevations from 5 to 2416m.

Native to Loja in Ecuador, where it grows as an epiphyte on trees in bush vegetation at about 2250 m. It grows solitarily or in small groups, propagating by shoots at the base of the rosette. The specific epithet honors Karine Bracke, who supported the study of Ecuadorian bromeliads with her husband Jose Manzanares.

Occurs along the Río Pachachaca in Apurímac, Peru, near the bridge between Abancay and Andahuaylas, and is known only from the type locality. It grows on rock walls at an elevation of 2500 m. Its epithet honors its discoverer, E. Kirschnek.

This species is native to the San Marcos-San Pablo region of Guatemala, growing at an elevation of 2200m. Its species epithet honors its discoverer, Manfred Kretz.

This species occurs in Bolivia, growing as a terrestrial plant in rich open places at elevations of 900 to 1800 m.

Native to Minas Gerais and the inland areas of Espirito Santo in Brazil, growing as an epiphyte in dense ombrophilous forest, semi-deciduous forest and campos rupestres at elevations of 500 to 1,700 m.

A species distributed in the state of Aragua in Venezuela, growing terrestrially and epiphytically in cloud forest at elevations of 400 to 1,600 m. The specific epithet honours Tobias Lasser for his many contributions to the botany of Venezuela.

Native to Oaxaca in Mexico, where it occurs at about 1800 m. The type specimen was collected at Copala by Alfred B. Lau, for whom the species is named.

Native to Colombia and Ecuador, this species grows terrestrially or on rocks on open or brushy slopes at elevations of 1200 to 2500 m. The type specimen was collected near Pasto in southern Colombia.

Tillandsia loliacea is distributed across Bolivia, Brazil, Paraguay, and Argentina, growing as a lithophyte and epiphyte in semi-arid habitats up to elevations of around 1500 m.

Occurs in Santander in Colombia and Pasco in Peru, growing as an epiphyte at elevations of 700 to 1,800 m. One variety is recognised.

Native to Mexico, where it grows saxicolously on rock faces and as an epiphyte in pine and oak forest at elevations of 1,800 to 3,200 m.

Occurs in the Cusco region of Peru, growing saxicolously on steep rock faces near the Urubamba River at 2,070 to 2,300 m elevation. The specific epithet derives from the Inca ruins of Machu Picchu.

Native to Ancash in Peru, where it grows on vertical rock walls at elevations of 2000 to 2600 m. The specific epithet honours Ludwig G. Maly.

A species known from the mountains near Brealito in Salta province, Argentina, growing on steep rock faces and flatter rock formations at about 2,700 m.

A stunning xeric species with broad, recurved leaves densely covered in white trichomes. It grows on steep cliffs and is adapted to arid environments with strong sunlight.

Ranges through the Mexican states of Hidalgo, Jalisco and Puebla, growing saxicolously on steep rock walls at 1,300-2,000 m elevation. The specific epithet honours the Mexican botanist P. Maury.

This species is distributed in Colombia and Ecuador, growing as an epiphyte in dry thickets and also on rocky cliffs at elevations of 650 to 1885 m. A variety is known.

Native to the state of Guerrero in Mexico, growing on vertical cliffs at around 1500 m.

Native to the state of Zacatecas in Mexico, this species grows on steep rock walls at elevations of 1800 to 2000 m. The specific epithet derives from the Sierra de Morones, where it grows abundantly on rock walls.

Native to Valle and Cauca in Colombia and to Cocle in Panama, where it grows at 450 to 2000 m on banks, cliffs and in forest. It occurs terrestrially, saxicolously and as an epiphyte.

A high-altitude caulescent species. Despite its specific name "nana" (dwarf), it can form long stems. It requires cool temperatures and high humidity but constant airflow.

Found in Oaxaca, Mexico, growing as an epiphyte at 2400 m elevation.

Native to Mexico, where it grows as an epiphyte in Abies and Pinus woods at 2650 to 3100 m. The specific epithet derives from Oaxaca, the state of the type locality.

Native to Colombia and Ecuador, growing as an epiphyte in thickets and forests at elevations of 2100 to 4000 m.

Native to Chuquisaca in Bolivia, occurring at an elevation of about 1,800 m. The type collection was made in the Oropeza area along the upper course of the Rio Chico.

A widely distributed species ranging from Colombia through Bolivia to Chile. It grows from sea level up to 3,000 m on rocks and desert sand, and also on trees in dry areas.

Native to Guerrero in Mexico, where it grows as an epiphyte on tall trees at about 1500 m. The specific epithet derives from El Paraiso, the area of the type locality.

Distributed from Florida, USA, through the Bahamas, Cuba, and Hispaniola, eastern Mexico, and Central America, to Colombia and Venezuela, this species grows epiphytically on low forest and scrub at elevations of 0-1500 m.

Native to El Salvador, growing in cloud forest on lake margins at elevations of 1300 to 1640 m.

Native to Mexico, where it grows in somewhat moist habitats at high elevations of 1,300 to 2,400 m. The specific epithet derives from the Latin plumosus, meaning feathery.

Tillandsia pohliana is distributed across Peru, Bolivia, Paraguay, Brazil, and Argentina, growing on rocks and epiphytically in thickets and dry woods at elevations of 750 to 1500 m.

Tillandsia polystachia occurs from the West Indies and Mexico south to Brazil and Bolivia, growing as an epiphyte at elevations from sea level to 1800 meters.

A species known from the Apurimac region of southern Peru, where it occurs at around 2,200 m in the Apurimac valley between Andahuaylas and Abancay. It has been recorded from a narrow area and was described in 1974.

A species from Mexico, growing on rocks at around 1,650 m.

Native to the Mexican states of Querétaro and Jalisco, growing on rock and occasionally on trees in semi-arid areas at 1,085 to 1,950 m. The epithet refers to Querétaro, where the species was found.

Known from the state of Rio de Janeiro in Brazil, growing in mountainous terrain at 1800 m. The type specimen was collected on Morro do Cuca in the Vale das Videiras near Petropolis.

A small epiphytic species from the highlands of Bolivia and Argentina. Forms compact rosettes with silvery-grey leaves covered in trichomes. Grows on perpendicular rocks and thorn shrub vegetation.

This species is widely distributed from the United States to Argentina, growing epiphytically and sometimes terrestrially in dry habitats at elevations from sea level to 3000 m. The type specimen was collected in Jamaica.

This species occurs in the Cajamarca region of Peru, growing exclusively on rocky substrates in higher-elevation areas at 1,900-2,800 m.

A saxicolous bromeliad endemic to the campos rupestres (rocky grasslands) of Minas Gerais state, Brazil. Originally described as Cryptanthus regius by Elton Leme in 2007. The specific epithet regius (Latin for "royal" or "regal") refers to its distinctive appearance. This species occurs on rocky outcrops in montane environments of the Espinhaço Range. Some taxonomic treatments place this species in the genus Hoplocryptanthus.

A species distributed in Bolivia and Argentina, growing as an epiphyte in woodland at elevations of 200 to 2,000 m.

Native to Azuay in Ecuador, where it grows solitarily as an epiphyte or terrestrially in bush vegetation at elevations of 2,000 to 3,010 m. The specific epithet honours Renate Gouda-Verwer.

Native to Oaxaca in Mexico, this species grows terrestrially at around 1,500 m elevation. The specific epithet is derived from the rose-colored, capitate inflorescence.

Known from Magdalena in Colombia at around 2800 m. The type specimen was collected on a tree at Sabana Rubia in the Serrania de Perija.

Ranges from Chiapas in Mexico through Guatemala to Honduras, at elevations of 1,400 to 2,500 m.

Known from Azuay in southern Ecuador, growing as an epiphyte at around 2,700 m elevation. The type material was collected about 20 km west of Cuenca.

A saxicolous or epiphytic species endemic to Peru. It forms a rosette of grayish-green leaves covered in trichomes. The inflorescence is typically simple or digitately compound with rose-colored floral bracts.

A large, impressive species native to Mexico. It features wide, green leaves and produces a tall, branched inflorescence with distinctive salmon-colored bracts.

A saxicolous species endemic to Bolivia, specifically around Samaipata. It has soft, gray-green leaves and produces a simple or few-branched inflorescence with white flowers.

A large, tank-type species native to Colombia. It has dark, maroon-tinged leaves and a unique pendulous inflorescence. It is adapted to cool, humid cloud forest environments.

A saxicolous or epiphytic species from Mexico. It forms a rosette of stiff, channeled leaves. The inflorescence usually exceeds the leaves.

A high-elevation tank bromeliad found in the Andes. It has a robust rosette and a branched inflorescence. Adapted to cool, misty habitats.

A Mexican species featuring a somewhat bulbous base and soft, spreading leaves. It produces a distinctive inflorescence with broad floral bracts.

A xerophytic species from Peru, often growing on rocks or sand. It has stiff, gray leaves and can be caulescent. Similar in appearance to Tillandsia latifolia.

A saxicolous species endemic to Mexico. It features curved, gray-lepidote leaves forming a rosette. The inflorescence typically has pinkish bracts.

A widely distributed, hardy species. It usually forms clumps of stiff, thin, gray leaves. Distinguished by its yellow flower petals and red floral bracts.

Occurs in Colombia and Venezuela, growing as an epiphyte in forest between 1200 and 2805 m. The type specimen was collected in Magdalena, Colombia.

A saxicolous bromeliad originally described as Cryptanthus schwackeanus by Mez. Endemic to the campos rupestres (rocky grasslands) of the Espinhaço Range in Minas Gerais state, Brazil. Occurs on rocky outcrops in montane environments subject to rigorous climatic and edaphic conditions. Some taxonomic treatments place this species in the genus Hoplocryptanthus. Part of a species complex that includes several related taxa adapted to iron-rich and quartzite substrates.

Tillandsia secunda is distributed in Ecuador, growing terrestrially and on rocks and cliffs at elevations of 2000 to 3500 m. A variety of the species is also known.

This species is native to Mexico, Guatemala, and Honduras, growing as an epiphyte in Pinus and Quercus woodland at elevations of 270 to 2100 meters.

Native to the state of Oaxaca in Mexico, where it grows in moist cloud forest at elevations of 2,000 to 2,300 m. The type collection was made on the summit of the Sierra de Juarez.

A species endemic to Ecuador, growing in forest at elevations of 2,900 to 3,500 m. The type material was collected in the valley of Nanegal in Pichincha.

This species is native to the Pichincha region of Ecuador, growing on steep brushy slopes at elevations of 2050-3000m.

A mesic, tank-forming species in subgenus Allardtia, described by L.B. Smith in 1961. The rosette produces soft, green leaves with a reddish flush, resembling a small Neoregelia in overall form. The inflorescence is notably elongated, reaching up to approximately 1.2 m in length, with red bracts and purple flowers. The fertile portion is reduced to approximately one-tenth of the total inflorescence length. Adventitious plantlets (offsets) develop at intervals along the inflorescence stalk, and the lower fertile branches curve backward to form hook-like structures. These hooks attach to branches in the host tree canopy, enabling the species to propagate vegetatively and spread through the crown — a strategy described as "climbing." This reproductive mechanism is distinctive within the genus Tillandsia.

Native to Bolivia, where it grows both on rocks and as an epiphyte at elevations of 950 to 3550 m. The type specimen was collected at Sorata in La Paz.

A saxicolous or epiphytic species native to Honduras and Guatemala. It forms a rosette of gray-green leaves and produces a long, pendulous inflorescence with striking red or pink bracts.

An epiphytic species found in Mexico and Honduras. It features narrow, green to gray-green leaves and a flattened inflorescence. It usually grows in pine-oak forests.

A caulescent, saxicolous species endemic to the high Andes of Peru. Resembling T. tectorum, it has fuzzy, trichome-covered leaves that grow in a star-like formation along the stem.

A natural hybrid between T. complanata and T. stenoura, described in 2024. It is a large epiphyte found in the high Andes of Ecuador, combining features of both parents.

A large, robust species native to the Andes. It forms a large rosette and produces a tall inflorescence with lavender flowers. It is adapted to cool, wet tropical environments.

An epiphytic species found in the cloud forests of Colombia and Venezuela. It forms a rosette of flexible leaves and produces a compact, globose inflorescence with pink bracts.

A mesic species native to Guatemala and Mexico. It features a bulbous base and soft green leaves. The inflorescence has red bracts and violet petals.

A caulescent, xeric species from Peru and Ecuador. It has soft, silvery-gray leaves and produces fragrant white flowers with purple edges. Often grows in large clumps.

A widely distributed species in South America. The leaves are covered in trichomes and often recurve or curl. It produces fragrant blue or purple flowers.

A highly adaptable and popular air plant with narrow triangular leaves forming thick rosettes. Produces bright red or rose bloom spikes with blue-purple flowers. One of the most widely cultivated Tillandsia species.

Native to Pichincha in Ecuador, where it grows on cliffs and in forests at 2000 to 2900 m. The type specimen was collected on the western slopes of Mount Pichincha.

Native to the State of Mexico in central Mexico, occurring at around 1700 m.

A saxicolous bromeliad originally described as Cryptanthus tiradentesensis by Elton Leme. The specific epithet refers to the Tiradentes region in Minas Gerais state where the species occurs. Found in the Serra do Rola-Moça State Park area. Endemic to the campos rupestres of Minas Gerais in the Espinhaço Range. Grows on rocky outcrops in the montane grasslands. Some taxonomic treatments place this species in the genus Hoplocryptanthus.

Native to the Ancash region of Peru, this species grows on vertical rock walls at an elevation of around 2400 m. The specific epithet was named after Rudolf Tomek, who acted in favour of species conservation.

Occurs in the Mexican states of Aguascalientes, Durango, Hidalgo, Jalisco, Queretaro, San Luis Potosi and Zacatecas, growing in the highlands at elevations of 1,850 to 2,250 m as an epiphyte or lithophyte, usually forming large clumps. The specific epithet means twisted in Latin and refers to the winding leaves.

Known as Spanish moss, with the widest distribution of any bromeliad, ranging from the southeastern United States to Argentina. Forms long, hanging festoons of slender, grayish-green stems up to 6 meters or more, draping from tree branches. Despite its common name, it is neither Spanish nor a moss, but a true flowering bromeliad. An epiphyte that absorbs all moisture and nutrients through its silvery trichome-covered leaves. Provides habitat for wildlife including birds, bats, and specialized spiders. Historically used for mattress stuffing, insulation, and crafts.

Distributed in Guatemala and Mexico, this species grows on pine trees in humid forest areas at elevations of 1200-2000 m. The specific epithet derives from the Latin adjective velutina, meaning velvety.

An epiphytic species endemic to the Central Mexican Plateau. Forms rosettes of leaves and grows primarily on large trees in humid temperate forests, particularly on Abies religiosa, Quercus rugosa, and Quercus laurina. The species name "violacea" refers to the violet coloration of the flowers. Due to its high-elevation habitat, this species exhibits tolerance to sub-freezing conditions, distinguishing it from most other Tillandsia species.

Known from the Amazonas region of northern Peru, growing as an epiphyte in wet scrub forest at 2900 to 3150 m. The type specimen was collected on the upper slopes and summit of Puma-urcu, southeast of Chachapoyas.

Native to Tarija in Bolivia, where it grows saxicolously in dense clumps at an elevation of about 3,000 m. The type collection was made 12 km west of the village of Yunchara.