Tillandsia compacta, commonly known as a species of air plants, is an epiphytic monocot that attaches to trees and other plants instead of growing in soils. Tillandsia compacta is native to Cuba, Hispaniola, Colombia, Bolivia, Venezuela and Ecuador. T. compacta can grow from 4 to 6 inches tall and has a compact rosette formation of slender blade-like leaves that curl downward towards the tip. The rosette also grows to a width of 5 inches with each leaf being covered in hair like trichomes that serve for water absorption and retention. Due to the fact that they are not in soil, these plants draw water from the humidity in the air and do not need to be watered directly like other, traditional plants Tillandsia compacta is known to bloom during the spring or summer months with colorful bracts and tubular flowers that range from purple to red and pink. This species is grown as an ornamental crop for its unique growth habit, showy long lasting flowers, and ease of care. It does best in higher elevations growing on other plants or structures with plenty of sunlight but not direct full sun. Avoid watering the plant directly like a traditional houseplant as it does not have roots and is prone to rot. You can water the plant as needed by submerging the entire plant in water for a few moments and then allowing the water to drain away before returning it to the growing area. Alternatively, misting with a spray bottle periodically can help increase humidity for the plant. Tillandsia compacta lacks a USDA hardiness zone but is typically grown as an indoor plant on bright window sills.
Tillandsia compacta seeds require consistent moisture and humidity to germinate, but soil should not be soaking wet. Cloning boxes, ziplock bags, and other containers that retain moisture are ideal to store sown pots. Sterilize soil/potting medium thoroughly to avoid pathogen contamination. Use a mixture of 50% fine-grade orchid bark, 30% perlite, and 20% peat moss as the potting mixture. Surface sow the seeds and avoid pressing them in completely. Germinating pots should be kept indoors out of extreme light and heat. The Ideal environment for germination of Tillandsia compacta would be a temperature range from 70°F to 80°F with a high 75%+ humidity. Germination typically takes 4 to 8 weeks to occur. Even with optimal conditions, germination may be slow and sporadic.
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All packages will be shipped with basic customs information such as; HS codes, VAT numbers, and properly labeled contents. Unfortunately, The Garden of Set is unable to provide phytosanitary certificates for orders at this time. It is the buyer’s responsibility to know local laws regarding the import of plants, seeds, and plant products into their country. It is also up to the buyer to provide any other customs forms or information required to import plants into their country. If packages get stopped by customs, The Garden of Set will not be able to provide a refund for the purchase. Most of the time packages make it to their destinations just fine, this is for the small minority of packages that get stopped without having all the proper customs information required by the country of import. Purchase at your own discretion.