Pink Quill Care Instructions

Taxonomic Name: Tillandsia cyanea

Bromeliad (Pineapple) Family

Small Herbaceous Plant

The pink quill is a popular bromeliad that makes an excellent alternative to more conventional flowering indoor plants. A broad, bright pink spike rises over the spray of grass-like foliage, and one by one deep-violet-colored flowers emerge from the spike's margins. The pink quill is a native of Ecuador and Peru. As a member of the large Tillandsia genus, it is a close relative of the "air plants" and Spanish moss.

How to Care for Your Plant:

LIGHT: Once in flower, pink quills will tolerate lower light levels, but it's in the plant's long-term interest to give it at least some direct sunlight. Accordingly, placement near a southern, western, or eastern window is preferable.

WATERING: Be careful not to overwater your plant. Let the soil surface dry out thoroughly between waterings, but when you do water, do so thoroughly. At least a little water should come out the pot's drainage holes, but do not let your pink quill sit in saucer water for more than a few minutes.

SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS: In common with most other plants native to the tropics, the pink quill needs high humidity (preferably 50% or above) to flourish. Especially in fall and winter, consider placing your plant on a wide tray of moistened gravel, or better yet, use a room humidifier nearby.