Tillandsia brachycaulos

Native from Mexico through Central America to Venezuela, it is an epiphytic bromeliad that grows on trees and exposed branches in seasonally dry to moist tropical habitats. A compact rosette of arching narrow leaves often turns vivid red as flowering begins. Small purple tubular flowers emerge from the center of the colorful rosette. The flowers open during the day, providing nectar to hummingbirds and attracting visits from honeybees. Photographed in Ecuador.