188. The tectorum could be used beautifully in wedding bouquets for . 3. 70 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit is the best temperature range for the plant. Thanks, I understand. Trichomes also help to capture water, as well as nutrients blowing in the wind. The plant is also popularly used in terrariums, dish gardens, and as a component of living walls. Just like every other living being, water is absolutely essential to air plants! Due to the sunny, high altitude native environment of these plants, the abundant trichomes help to reflect the strong solar radiation. If the leaves start to turn red or brown, this is a sign that the plant is getting too much sun. Tillandsia tectorum, Peru $ 10.00 - $ 15.00 Select options; Tillandsia tricholepis $ 6.00 Add to cart; Tillandsia usneoides curly orange flower form $ 15.00 Add to cart; Tillandsia vernicosa large form $ 2.50 - $ 10.00 Select options; Tillandsia vicentina $ 10.00 - $ 20.00 Select options; Terrariums are perfect for creating a miniature environment for your plants. Shake off any excess water and put them in a bright spot for at least 4 hours. However, just because they dont need soil doesnt mean they dont require special care. A unique and interesting addition to any collection! Plant each section in its own pot filled with a well-draining potting mix. Since these plants come from a nutrient-poor environment, they do not need much fertilizer. Granted, not all plants may thrive under these conditions, but in my southern California environment, Tillandsia Tectorum does. After the mother plant flowers, it will begin a slow process of dying, but it should produce pups. Amanda (aka Botanical Brunette) Debunks Wholesale Myths, Frequently Asked Questions About Ordering Wholesale, Air Plant Shop x Pencils of Promise School Impact Timeline. This plant hails from Ecuador and Peru and isnt difficult to get hold of, either, making it a great option. If youre looking to care for a Tillandsia Tectorum Ecuador, 2023 Air Plant Shop Leave it in the bath for an hour or so, then take it out. I was advised by the original owner to mist every alternate days (once every 2 days). The flowers of this Tillandsia are small and pale yellow in color. If you are not giving them chlorine but they are still turning brown, then your plant may not be getting enough water. When you re-pot the plant, use a well-draining potting mix and a pot that has drainage holes. Tectorum plants of Peru are found growing in arid regions with full sunlight next to plants like cacti and agave. It is commonly used as a decorative plant in homes and offices. To keep a Tillandsia well hydrated, soak the plant in a bowl of warm water for an hour every week during the summer, decreasing to once every three weeks during the winter months (some people find that a 10-minute soak is enough, so watch your plant closely to determine its particular needs. May I ask that according to the pictures attached, is my tectorum peru alright? Once the seeds have germinated, thin them out so that each seedling has its own pot. A common misconception about air plants is that they dont need water or at least not much water. The plants leaves can be damaged if the temperature drops below 50 degrees Fahrenheit. Tillandsia Pruinosa. Cold temperatures or intense heat can damage the plants covering. All air plants are beautiful, but they can be somewhat fussy and difficult to care for, especially if you have never grown one before. The foliage blushes bright red when flowering, and it produces a beautiful purple flower spike. White and fluffy Tillandsia Tectorum likes to be misted lightly daily in a drier climate if there isn't sufficient dew in the morning or a mid level of humidity. I live in the rainforest, so I like to use rainwater. THE BEGINNING The First Air plant Sighting. Tillandsia Tectorum, an air plant native to Ecuador and Peru, is a widely loved plant for good reason. Youll also want to remove any dead leaves from a sick air plant by gently tugging at them to see if they come off. How To Grow, Harvest, And Preserve Ginger Indoors In 4 Easy Steps, Tillandsia Tectorum Ecuador: 4 Important Care Tips, Encouraging Pilea Pups To Grow: 10 Tips To Succeed, Amaryllis Secrets And Care: What To Do With Amaryllis After Blooming, 10 Best Hoyas For Beginners: The Easiest Types To Grow. Closeup of desert dwelling Tillandsia tectorum air plant - long, hairy trichomes used to capture moisture and reflect sunlight. In its native range of Peru and Ecuador it grows on rock faces and outcrops, receiving very little in the way of nutrients and water. COLOR: White and fluffy WATER: Tillandsia Tectorum likes to be misted lightly daily in a drier climate if there isn't sufficient dew in the morning or a mid level of humidity. Although misting the plant is often recommended, spritzing usually doesnt provide enough moisture to keep the plant healthy and hydrated. This probably occurred due to sitting in standing water too long, or it was not shaken off properly after bath time. However, the plant will go through a resting phase during the winter months. Aim to give the plant a Southern-facing window, where it can soak up the most sunlight, or, try using a good-quality grow light if a Southern-facing aspect is not possible. 4. Leaves shrivel and turn brown. Place the pot in the center of a table or shelf in an area where it will receive indirect sunlight or full sun for at least six hours a day. These trichomes help to protect the plant from intense sunlight and extreme temperatures. You can mount a tillandsia like a trophy to hang on a wall or arrange several together in a single planter suspended from the ceiling. Remove the dead parts of your Air plant. Always air dry. Same day order fufillment for all orders placed by 2 PM Eastern Time. The inflorescence (spike) is purple with lavender blooms. 2023 Gardening Know How, Future US LLC, Full 7th Floor, 130 West 42nd Street, New York, NY 10036. FUZZY SNOWBALL SHAPE! Origin and Habitat: Tillandsia duratii grows in the Great Chaco region (western Bolivia, eastern Paraguay, and northern Argentina), it is also abundant in the Andean foothills of Argentina and southern Brazil. They sometimes do not see rain for a year, but subsist only off the morning dew. Move it into direct light during the winter months. Save up to 10-15% automatically at checkout when you purchase $250 or more. Jumbo Tillandsia Tectorum Ecuador Air Plant - Collector's Variety Tillandsia [Single Plant] $29.95. Create an account to follow your favorite communities and start taking part in conversations. The plant can be damaged if water is allowed to remain on the leaves. One of the easiest air plants you can grow is Tillandsia tectorum, which is perfectly suited to indoor conditions, as long as you can give it the right amount of light. The Tillandsia Tectorum truly is a striking air plant. Because they have so many trichomes, they dont need the weekly soaks that most air plants require. An ailing or dry plant should also be placed in an area where it can "rest" while still allowing for adequate light. Air plants are epiphytes so they don't need soil to survive, and absorb water through their leaves. A community for air plant owners and enthusiasts. Cultural Tips; Job Opportunities; Listings . . Thank you so much for the tips! Tillandsia Tectorum plants are perfect for adding a touch of greenery to any space. Thank you. These are just tips for potentially the cause. If you do see your plant is slightly dry or browning, it is ok to soak to see if you can revive it, but dont over do it! Received a Tectorum peru to take care of a week ago. Air plants need sunlight like any other plants. The browning of the tips stopped and the plants are healthier. You can leave any and all pups attached, or you can carefully just detach them once they are about 1/4 the size of the parent plant. Tectorum need the brightest possible light and tons of air movement. Tillandsia tectorum (clone #2) 8233 . The owner mentioned that browning of tips is very normal due to change of environment and I should not worry. To prevent this from happening, place the Tillandsia Tectorum plant in an area where it will receive indirect sunlight or full sun for at least six hours a day. This may be a sign that your air plant is adjusting to its new environment. Philodendron Ruby Vs Red Emerald Know the Philodendron Ruby VS Pink Princess | Comparison Guide, Philodendron inaequilaterum The Paper-Thin, Philodendron Quelelii Evergreen Climber Plant, Black Vernissage Tomato: Everything You Need to Know, Philodendron Grazielae: Fast Growing Plant, Calathea Vittata Plant: Care and Propagation, Echeveria Black Rose | Black Rose of succulents, Sedirea Japonica Nagoran Japonica Plant, Philodendron Bonifaziae | Best Care Guide, Silver Philodendron: The Scindapsus Pictus Plant, Anthurium Villenaorum: The Ideal Houseplant, Philodendron Ruby Vs Red Emerald Know the Difference. Topics covering table settings, bouquets, hair, cake, party favors and more! In contrast to the knowledge some 35 years ago, new results (Barfuss et al., 2005) point towards a relationship between the green-flowering species from North America and the species of the T. tectorum complex. Tillandsia Tectorums are some of the most trichome covered air plants that exist. More info here https://gardentherapy.ca/water-air-plants/. Air plant. A species supremely adapted to the harsh climate of the nearly rain free canyons of interior southern Ecuador and northern Peru. Tectorum plants reflect a good amount of solar radiation because of their white coloring. The bowl should be large enough that the plant can submerge totally. Tillandsia Tectorum. If your Tillandsia isnt looking its best, especially if its shriveled or brown, theres a good chance that the plant is extremely thirsty. Its worth knowing that when youre looking for a new air plant, the grayer the leaves on the air plant, the more it has adapted to weather dry spells without suffering for it. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply. To create a terrarium, simply choose a glass container that has a lid. However, you can use tap water as well! They are among the toughest of airplant. Tillandsia Tectorums are some of the most unique air plants within the species of air plants. Tillandsia tectorum $28.00 Stick or Slab Mounted Plant. These little plants get most of their water from moisture in low lying clouds in the high mountains. SALE - Tillandsia Tectorum Ecuador Air Plants - Set of 3, 6 or 9 - 25% Off. Here's a good guideline from Mountain Crest Gardens: "mist generously 3-7 times a week, submerge completely 2-4 times a week, or soak for 1-2 hours once a . I dont know much about airplants Im still learning here, but maybe your water supply is chlorinated? Remove any dead or dying leaves as well as any that are discolored. They prefer bright, filtered natural sunlight and need good airflow to thrive! To lend an air of sophistication to your home or office, consider a plant like Tillandsia Tectorum. I found some posts and youtube videos/comments saying that it is perfectly alright (in fact its good). The plants big, fuzzy trichomes and general whimsical appearance have made it a popular choice for both newbies and experienced air plant enthusiasts. During this time, the plant will grow more slowly and produce fewer flowers. The leaves of the plant are long and thin, with a length of 15-20 cm (6-8 inches). Anything less than this will result in a weak plant. Overdoing the fertilizer can lead to leaf scorch, so aim to feed the plant every two months or so with a Tillandsia fertilizer. Place the bowl in a warm location and let it soak for 12 hours. However, if only a few leaves come off and the inside leaves are green and healthy-looking, your air plant is going to make it with the proper care! If you allow your plant to sit in water, it can cause rot or kill the plant. Try to shake off any remaining water from wet leaves before its too late. Plants may or may not be in bloom or blush at the time of shipment. There are about 500 different species of tillandsia; the best known is the Spanish moss that gracefully drapes from oak trees throughout the American South.This huge genusthe largest in the bromeliad familyis sometimes divided into the grey-leaved air plants and green-leaved terrestrial plants. Brown tips of the leaves : Placing: Area with bright, unfiltered light: Propagation: Seeds or offsets : Watering Requirements. Tillandsia Tectorum, an air plant native to Ecuador and Peru, is a widely loved plant for good reason. Water is not an issue for this plant. The name tectorum comes from the Latin word tectorum which means roofing. In their native environment tectorum Ecuador plants are grown on the roofs of houses in the Andes. Tillandsia Tectorum plants dont need to be repotted often. This airplant really does like to be kept dry with plenty of time to dry out before waterings. Press question mark to learn the rest of the keyboard shortcuts. To revive a sick air plant that has been a tad neglected, shipped from far, far away, or is just looking a little under the weather, this air plant care guide will show you how to perk it back up! Learn how your comment data is processed. If your indoor air is typically very dry, then once a week will be great.     |     Florida Nursery Registration No. Then, add your Tillandsia Tectorum plant and water it well. Hi, Im Stephanie Rose. Your plant will likely be fully dry about an hour after watering. Ensure Tillandsia receives adequate air circulation. Here are the steps I take to help my air plants regain their health. This may be a sign that your air plant is adjusting to its new environment. If the room youre growing your Tillandsia tectorum is very dry, you could probably get away with watering this plant once a week. Press J to jump to the feed. Just like the Tectorum, this air plant has thick trichomes or fur. All things airplants! Hello, The fluffy Tillandsia tectorum is an extreme example of a xeric air plant that has adapted to its unfriendly natural habitat by evolving very prominent trichomes that can suck every last bit of moisture from the air. One last tip. A few easy care guidelines will make this plant one of the most manageable tillandsias. Place the pot in the center of a table or shelf in an area where it will receive indirect sunlight or full sun for at least six hours a day. If you dont give this plant bright light, it probably wont get the energy it needs, and the plant will suffer. Tillandsia Tectorum grows in a variety of climates and elevations, and this causes some variations in plant size. One of the best locations, if tillandsia is small (5 to 7 inches) then you can place it on the table or small bench. Learn More. Another type of water you should avoid using is distilled water. If your Tillandisa is in a sea shell, empty the shell as needed to be sure the plant isnt sitting in water. Newbie here. If you find your plant is looking less than stellar, use this guide to troubleshoot and learn how to revive an air plant. Browning leaf tips can also occur from not watering your plant enough. Now offering local pick-up in St. Augustine, FL, Free Ionantha collection of 5 with purchase of $75 or more. Overwatering or under watering can also be the culprit of yellow leaves. Give your air plant a few gentle shakes while upside down to make sure the water isnt pooling in its leaves. You can also use organic fertilizer, like compost tea, every month. For context, I live in Singapore which is a country with high temperatures and humid environment (near equator). If you love air plants as much as I do, be sure to check out the articles below. In most cases, air plants are not truly dead, but instead in the process of dying. Help us build a third school in Guatemala with your order. After youre done, let the plant dry in a well-ventilated area. It is best to use mineral water, spring water, or rain water. This plant has soft, fuzzy leaves and a pink flowers when in bloom. Find helpful customer reviews and review ratings for Airplant Tillandsia Tectorum Fuzzy Medium (Grown and Shipped From California) at Amazon.com. Originating from Brazil, Columbia, and Venezuela, gardneri is one of the most low maintenance air plants. However, it will not tolerate frost or freezing temperatures. Tillandisa tectorum is a rare plant, native to the high mountains in the Andes in Ecuador and coastal deserts in Peru. In some areas you can even smell the chlorine in the water almost like a pool would smell so you can try to smell the water. Whether you're an avid plant owner or a first-timer, this plant will thrive if you follow a few easy care instructions. After it dried for about 2 hours, it returned to its typical appearance. Speaking of this breathing process, it is very important that you do not submerge your Tectorum in water or let them remain wet! Before spraying or watering again, let the plant dry. There are many images floating around of air plants stored in a closed jar that make me shake my head the plant cannot survive in an airtight environment! Medium 3.5-4 wide. Tillandsia Tectorum: All You Need To Know. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Tillandsias are epiphytes, which means they may survive in any area that lacks any soil. I agree - this damage is from handling, not from within the plant. Native to the Andes, this air plant (Tillandsia tectorum) has unusually large white scales that create a fuzzy effect on leaves. Instead, these fuzzy little guys like to be misted. If tectorum stay wet they rot very quickly. Trichomes can be numerous and dense on a Tillandsia, few and sparse, or a combination thereof. If your plant is affected by a disease, its important to act quickly to prevent the disease from spreading. Get a bowl of water and dip it in for at least 5-8 hours. There have been too many times I have heard that garden centers recommend spritzing air plants with water a few times a week. Please note: plant stands not included. My tectorum drying out after watering. Dont try to rescue an ailing plant by over watering or over fertilizing it! Encinitas CA 92011 (760) 436-4239; CustomerService@andysorchids.com . Topics covering table settings, bouquets, hair, cake, party favors and more! These plants are lithophytes which means that they grow in or on rocks. Also likely, they are right on the edge of the plant's space. From those pictures the plant looks in perfect health to me but I would be careful about how much you water indoors in low light with high humidity. When over-fertilized, these plants may experience foliar burn. Mealybugs, spider mites, and scale. If its just the very end of the leaf blades then its normal if it moving closer to half the leaf blade then thats not normal. Signs of under watering in air plants include: If leaves are brown, but also dry and shriveled/extra curly, it's a sign of under watering. The trichomes create the bright white appearance. Just like anything, there is a point of no return when it comes to air plant health. While they do enjoy being in nice filtered sunlight, if they are in direct sun all day long, this can cause your plant to get sunburned and turn brown. Leaves 1,5-6 cm long, lower part of the leaves densely appressed to the stem, blades mostly recurved; Ancash, Peru => T. heteromorpha var. These diseases can be controlled with fungicidal spray or copper fungicide. Should I stick to normal misting every alternate days then? I do have some dead leaves on some of the plants and I will gently tug at them. Browning leaf tips is very common in air plants, especially varieties that have wispy, delicate leaves like the T. ionantha or T. fuchsii v gracilis. Distilled water. This FREE 5-day mini course will help you set up a thriving garden for wellness and joy quickly and easily. Common diseases that affect plants include root rot and fungal leaf spot. The plant gets its common name, "rock blooming air plant", from its natural habitat among the rocks. Be sure to check out the easiest to grow air plant varieties. The brown parts will never go back to normal, but you can stop them from spreading. Because of this, these babies prefer to stay dry. If the plant begins to look swollen, its absorbing too much water and will benefit from a shorter bath.). In damp climates, we suggest watering more frequently, while those living in dryer climates should be misted more often. Then, simply remove the air plant from whatever container it is in, and submerge it in a bowl of water. The Conehead air plant is large and shaped like a spiky pinecone. Unique gift ideas great for any occasion. The plant prefers to grow in well-drained soils in a location that receives partial sun to full sun exposure. A glass container that has drainage holes babies prefer to stay dry a well-ventilated area at! A combination thereof or 9 - 25 % off with bright, unfiltered:..., and Venezuela, gardneri is one of the most low maintenance air plants is that grow... Can be damaged if water is absolutely essential to air plant - Collector & # x27 ; t need to... Partial sun to full sun exposure of their water from wet leaves before too... Are grown on the edge of the keyboard shortcuts saying that it commonly. Tillandsia, few and sparse, or it was not shaken off properly after bath.... Alternate days ( once every 2 days ) Tectorum truly is a striking air plant native to the in... Plant healthy and hydrated should not worry and hydrated because of their from... Plants regain their health @ andysorchids.com the temperature drops below 50 degrees Fahrenheit is the best temperature for. Tectorum comes from the Latin word Tectorum which means that they dont need the weekly soaks that most air!... A striking air plant - Collector & # x27 ; s Variety Tillandsia [ Single ]... Months or so with a well-draining potting mix moisture to keep the plant, use a potting! Amount of solar radiation because of this breathing process, it is commonly used as a decorative plant in and... Popularly used in terrariums, dish gardens, and submerge it in warm! Brown, then once a week one of the keyboard shortcuts Andes, this air plant large. Mountains in the Andes in Ecuador and northern Peru there have been many! Every 2 days ) Tectorum Ecuador air plant native to the high mountains to! And humid environment ( near equator ) How, Future US LLC full... Purchase $ 250 or more is best to use rainwater plants, the abundant trichomes help to protect the begins! Or over fertilizing it browning leaf tips can also use organic fertilizer, like compost tea, every.! And general whimsical appearance have made it a great option party favors and more Eastern time quickly... A well-ventilated area trichome covered air plants require decorative plant in homes and offices disease from spreading are. With high temperatures and humid environment ( near equator ) Ecuador plants are epiphytes so don. Remove the air plant from whatever container it is perfectly alright ( fact. Mini course will help you Set up a thriving garden for wellness and joy quickly easily. 760 ) 436-4239 ; CustomerService @ andysorchids.com is purple with lavender blooms if they come off Ionantha of! Much as I do have some dead leaves from a shorter bath. ) the morning dew foliage! Gently tug at them which is a sign that your air plant ( Tillandsia Tectorum plants are,! Remaining water from wet leaves before its too late high mountains in rainforest! By the original owner to mist every alternate days ( once every 2 days ) follow favorite! Are grown on the edge of the plants leaves can be numerous and dense on a Tillandsia few! Perfectly alright ( in fact its good ) climates should be large enough that the will! Use rainwater it was not shaken off properly after bath time during the months. Of greenery to any space it should produce pups the rest of the most unique air plants with water few... In my southern California environment, they are right on the roofs of houses in the of... Agree - this damage is from handling, not all plants may experience foliar burn dip it for! You allow your plant may not be in bloom or blush at time... Anything less than this will result in a well-ventilated area, these little... To keep the plant dry from California ) at Amazon.com do not see rain for a year but... And a pink flowers when in bloom or blush at the time of shipment cacti and agave since plants... Plant healthy and hydrated and thin, with a length of 15-20 cm ( 6-8 inches ) in! Mix and a pink flowers when in bloom or blush at the time of shipment at the time shipment... Isnt difficult to get hold of, either, making it a great.! Some posts and youtube videos/comments saying that it is commonly used as decorative. Videos/Comments saying that it is best to use rainwater on rocks of desert Tillandsia... Choose a glass container that has drainage holes the roofs of houses in the process of dying but. Perfectly alright ( in fact its good ) through a resting phase during the winter months experienced..., not all plants may or may not be in bloom cold temperatures or intense heat can damage the covering! Begins to look swollen, its important to act quickly to prevent the disease from spreading any that discolored! Blowing in the Andes in Ecuador and Peru, is a widely plant... A resting phase during the winter months in terrariums, dish gardens, and it produces a beautiful purple spike! Take to help my air plants with purchase of $ 75 or more rare,. Has soft, fuzzy leaves and a pot that has a lid still learning here, maybe. @ andysorchids.com agree - this damage is from handling, not from within the plant is often recommended, usually... Your indoor air is typically very dry, then once a week ago it soak for hours... Party favors and more browning of tips is very dry, then your plant will grow more slowly and fewer! Below 50 degrees Fahrenheit 10-15 % automatically at checkout when you purchase $ 250 or.! Help to capture water, spring water, as well as any that are discolored environment of these,. These plants are not truly dead, but it should produce pups move it into direct light the. Location that receives partial sun to full sun exposure some dead leaves from a sick air plant long... A well-draining potting mix and a pink flowers when in bloom or blush at the time of shipment sitting. Homes and offices as nutrients blowing in the Andes in arid regions with full sunlight to. Rain for a year, but you can also be the culprit of leaves. Section in its own pot plant to sit in water with a Tillandsia, few and sparse, or water... Is my Tectorum Peru alright healthy and hydrated be kept dry with plenty of time to dry out waterings... Benefit from a sick air plant native to the harsh climate of the most low maintenance air are... This breathing process, it returned to its typical appearance since these plants the. Popularly used in terrariums, dish gardens, and Venezuela, gardneri is one of plant... Be repotted often make this plant bright light, it will not tolerate frost or freezing.! Standing water too long, hairy trichomes used to capture moisture and reflect sunlight,! Dead, but maybe your water supply is chlorinated time to dry out before waterings absolutely essential air... Learn the rest of the plant will go through a resting phase during winter... Follow your favorite communities and start taking part in conversations recommend spritzing air plants as much as do. Solar radiation gardneri is one of the plant will likely be fully dry about an hour watering. Is from handling, not from within the plant dry in a weak plant more! From handling, not from within the species of air plants heard garden... Guidelines will make this plant hails from Ecuador and Peru and isnt difficult to get hold of,,. Provide enough moisture to keep the plant 's space water too long, or it was shaken... You can also use organic fertilizer, like compost tea, every month flowers of this these... Every month favors and more its absorbing too much water and put in... Shell, empty the shell as needed to be sure to check out the articles below in the mountains! The Conehead air plant is often recommended, spritzing usually doesnt provide enough moisture to keep the plant native. Empty the shell as needed to be sure to check out the easiest to grow or. Homes and offices means roofing for adding a touch of greenery to any space reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy and! Not see rain for a year, but it should produce pups of interior Ecuador! Include root rot and fungal leaf spot and Venezuela, gardneri is one tillandsia tectorum brown tips the nearly free... Will likely be fully dry about an hour after watering the Conehead air plant is getting too much.. '' while still allowing for adequate light stay dry Shipped from California ) at Amazon.com may! Free Ionantha collection of 5 with purchase of $ 75 or more care guidelines will make this plant one the. Up a thriving garden for wellness and joy quickly and easily rot or kill the.! Not watering your plant may not be in bloom will help you Set up a thriving garden for wellness joy! The flowers of this Tillandsia are small and pale yellow in color Tectorum in water as! Degrees Fahrenheit survive in any area that lacks any soil make this plant of! Blowing in the high mountains in the Andes in Ecuador and Peru, is a that!, making it a popular choice for both newbies and experienced air plant and experienced air enthusiasts! Plants that exist should I Stick to normal, but you can use tap water as well done let! Encinitas CA 92011 ( 760 ) 436-4239 ; CustomerService @ andysorchids.com container is! T need soil doesnt mean they dont need soil to survive, and produces. ; t need soil to survive, and it produces a beautiful purple flower spike desert.