Tillandsia bulbosa

Tillandsia bulbosa is one of the most architecturally distinctive air plants, featuring a hollow, bulbous pseudobulb at the base from which long, sinuous green leaves spiral outward. In its native range it often harbours ant colonies within the bulb, but in paludarium conditions it simply provides a striking structural accent on driftwood and rock piles. The deep purple-flushed leaves that develop around the flower spike are a seasonal reward for the keeper.

T. bulbosa is adapted to humid lowland and cloud-forest environments with high rainfall, so the consistently moist air of a paludarium suits it perfectly. It is one of the easier bulbous-base tillandsias to cultivate, tolerating slightly lower light than many related species. It produces pups reliably from the base of the bulb after flowering.

Light: Medium indirect; 1,500–3,500 lux; tolerates lower light better than most tillandsias. CO2/Humidity: No CO2; mist 3–4 times weekly; humidity above 65% preferred. Fertilisation: Apply quarter-strength bromeliad fertiliser monthly by misting the whole plant. Placement: Attach the bulb base to cork bark or driftwood with non-toxic glue; leave the bulb hollow and unobstructed. Propagation: Detach pups once they reach half the parent size; glue or tie to fresh hardscape.