Cardinal Airplant in Saltmarsh

© Judd Patterson (Photo #1146)

Date: April 18, 2009
Location: Everglades National Park (Florida)
Country: United States

Comments: The Cardinal Airplant (Tillandsia fasciculata) is one of Florida's beautiful native bromeliads. These epiphytes grow on other plants, but they derive their moisture directly from the atmosphere. Their beautiful flowers spikes can be seen year-round, but they seem particularly abundant near the end of the dry season in April and early May. Unfortunately they are are considered to be threatened in Florida due to the Mexican bromeliad weevil that has been documented in 22 Florida counties.