This species is proposed with some hesitancy. Tillandsia abbreviata keys to T. reversa L. B. Smith in the latest treatment of the genus (Smith & Downs, 1977), but differs from this species by its much smaller habit, rounded and apiculate leaf blades, very short scape and distinctly stipitate branches. The. dimensions and structure of the floral bracts and sepals are nearly identical to T. reversa. but due to the great dissimilarities in overall morphology, I consider T. abbreviata to be specifically distinct. —SeePhytologia
