Tillandsia novakii

Tillandsia novakii is an epiphytic species native to the state of Veracruz, Mexico, growing at altitudes of up to 65 meters above sea level. The scientific name of this plant was chosen in honor of A. J. Novak, an enthusiast of these plants from Austin, Texas. He was the first person to collect a specimen of the plant and accurately record all the scientific data from the location where he found it. It is a highly caulescent plant that can reach up to one meter in length. Its numerous long, fleshy leaves, arranged very closely together one above the other, form an open rosette. They have a distinctive red color year-round in good sunlight, which contrasts with the abundant trichomes that give the plant a whitish, glossy appearance. Its long, red inflorescence branches into several green bracts. The flowers are tubular and lilac.