I know that T. recurvata can survive hard freezes in Austin, Texas. It grows wild there.

The best way to determine cold hardiness is by checking the plant's natural habitat. Many So. American species grow at very high altitudes and are especially adapted for extreme cold. All mine are protected but in the past T. streptophylla was the only species that was adversely affected by frost.

I wish I had some cold hardy ones for here in East Texas. But since I'm new to them I can't afford to purchase them and leave them outside to croak. I'd have a heart attack and croak myself if my little babies didn't do well. LOL

I guess I'm going to be over protective until I learn a little about all these different bromeliads. I am just overwhelmed by all the different ones.....

Happy Gardening,
Marian

Just speculating here, but I'm thinking that there must be some tillies besides recurvata and Spanish moss that can survive a bit of a freeze. Maybe some Mexican or Andean species?

Tillandsia aeranthos can survive a bit of a freeze

Here is a link that might be useful: Tillandsia aeranthos

My Tillandsia deppeana, australis, flabellata plants survived -8C for two long nights without a blemish. Till.imperialis should be just as cold-hardy. Even though I live in low altitude, my winters are usually coolish, and the high-altitude tills grow well in the landscape here throughout winter. Hope this helps.

Cheers,
Kerry

hello kerry

i fcbs'ed those species......now i have 4 more on my want list. i love the tank-type tillandsias.

thanks

Hayes, have you tried contacting Pamela at Bird Rock? She specializes in Tills, and has an extensive collection of high elevation species. She could tell you which ones can survive lower temps, I'm sure.

Here is a link that might be useful: Bird Rock Tropicals

i just got an order in on thur from birdrock.....including some tillandsias. LOL ill certainly get in touch with her on that......thanks lisa!