Taxonomy
- Kingdom: Plantae
- Clade: Tracheophytes
- Clade: Angiosperms
- Clade: Monocots
- Order: Poales
- Family: Bromeliaceae
- Subfamily: Tillandsioideae
- Genus: Tillandsia
- Subgenus: Tillandsia (sensu L.B. Smith)
- Species: Tillandsia schultzei L.B.Sm.
Description
Tillandsia schultzei is an epiphytic bromeliad characterized by a rosette of narrow, gray‑green leaves that are typically 15–30 cm in length. The leaves are covered with trichomes that give the plant a fuzzy appearance and facilitate atmospheric water absorption. The inflorescence is a simple, unbranched spike that can reach 20–35 cm in height. Flowers are tubular, lasting several days, and display a pale lavender to pink hue with three prominent sepals. The floral bracts are green‑reddish. Fruit is a dehiscent capsule containing numerous wind‑dispersed seeds equipped with a pappus of fine hairs.
Distribution and Habitat
The species is native to the tropical Andes, with documented occurrences in the humid montane forests of Colombia and Ecuador, typically at elevations of 1,200–2,300 m above sea level. It grows as an epiphyte on tree branches and occasionally on rock outcrops where humidity is high and light conditions range from semi‑shaded to full sun.
Ecology
As an atmospheric bromeliad, T. schultzei obtains most of its water and nutrients from mist, rain, and dust deposited on its leaf surfaces. The trichome density is an adaptation to xeric periods, allowing rapid water uptake. The plant provides microhabitats for small invertebrates and contributes to nutrient cycling within its forest canopy environment.
Conservation Status
The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has not assessed Tillandsia schultzei as a separate species; therefore, its official conservation status is presently “Not Evaluated.” Habitat loss due to deforestation and the expansion of agriculture in the Andean region may pose localized threats, but specific population trends are insufficiently documented.
Cultivation
Tillandsia schultzei is cultivated by bromeliad enthusiasts for its modest size and attractive foliage. In cultivation, it requires bright, indirect light, high humidity, good air circulation, and a watering regime that mimics natural precipitation (e.g., soaking once weekly and misting on non‑watering days). The plant benefits from a well‑draining substrate such as sphagnum moss or expanded clay granules when mounted.
References
- Smith, L.B. (1977). The Bromeliaceae of the Guayana Shield. Contributions from the United States National Herbarium 30(1).
- Luther, H.E. (1999). An Annotated Checklist of the Bromeliaceae of Bolivia. Selbyana 20(2): 197–258.
- International Plant Names Index (IPNI). Tillandsia schultzei L.B.Sm.
Note: The information presented reflects current botanical literature and databases up to the date of this entry.