T

List of flora of Tobago - their origins & uses: Alphabetic Order Started with "T"

• Theobroma cacao

  LINN, STERCULIACEAE
  
  Common name: cacao, cocoa, chocolate tree.
  THERE IS A DETAILED SECTION ON THE CACAO SPECIES

• Tillandsia utriculata

  L, BROMELIACEAE
  
  Common name: wild pine, air plant

  This plant requires the high humidity of the rainforest and is found growing in the northern parts of Tobago and Trinidad. It is a native to tropical and subtropical Americas and the Caribbean; named after 17th century Swedish botanist Elias Tillands; many native habitats have been decimated by over-collecting.

  It grows to a size of 15-60cm (6-24in) high and a width of 30cm (12in) Growth rate is moderate. The foliage is variable, generally grey from silver-grey scales (which absorb moisture and nutrients), some species green; scaly leaves strap-shaped, narrow triangular or linear; usually in rosettes.
  
  Flowers: tubular to funnel-shaped, 3 sepals and 3 petals often with spreading lobes, opening in day, surrounded by colourful bracts; solitary or more often in 2 rows forming a spike, or in a compound inflorescence; flower scape often with colourful bracts; may last several months.

  The light it requires is full sun to bright and it may not bloom if insufficient light Temperature: cool to warm when there is active growth. It does not require soil as it attaches itself slabs, rocks, trees and similar objects and surfaces.

  Pests and Problems: fungal root rot, mealybugs, scale. Propagation: offsets, 7 years to flowering from seed.