Family: Bromeliaceae

Tillandsia ionantha (sky plant, blushing bride) is an epiphyte native to Central America and Mexico. Due to its small size, colorful appearance, and ease of care, Tillandsia ionantha is popular for use in decorative arrangements, including terrariums, vertical gardens, and hanging displays. Tillandsia ionantha is a favorite among air plant enthusiasts and interior decorators for its compact size, colorful appearance, and adaptability to a variety of climates. It is an excellent choice for those looking to incorporate air plants into their living spaces. It has been widely cultivated with no evidence of negative impacts where it has been introduced. This plant has not been documented as naturalized in any Hawaiian Islands to date.

High Risk Traits:

• Broad climate suitability and elevation range
  
• Thrives and spreads in regions with tropical climates
  
• Naturalized in Florida
  
• Other Tillandsia species have become invasive
  
• Reproduces by wind-dispersed seeds, and intentionally cultivated by people
  
• May hybridize with other species
  
• Propagated by offsets; may be able to spread vegetatively

Low Risk Traits:

• Widely cultivated with no evidence of negative impacts where introduced
  
• Unarmed (no spines, thorns, or burrs)
  
• Non-toxic
  
• Grows best in high light environments (dense shade may inhibit spread)
  
• An outcrossing species
  
• Presumably pollinated by hummingbirds and possibly insects, but pollinator limitation suspected of limiting seed set outside native range