Tillandsia caput-medusae | Gardening Diary

Tillandsia caput-medusae is one of the hardiest air plants in my collection and can survive long periods of drought. It enjoys high temperature and humidity, which is easy to achieve in tropical Singapore.

It earned its name from the beautiful snake-like leaves. As the plant dries out, they curl more. This species is xeric but I do like to let my caput-medusae have a quick soak in water weekly to unfurl the leaves.

My larger caput-medusae is growing fresh roots. Although roots are only used for anchoring, I take new roots as a sign of healthy air plant.

I have some flowering specimens and they are absolutely stunning. Tillandsia caput-medusae attains a lovely pink blush when it is flowering.