Tillandsia (Air Plants)

• Size: T. ionantha stays small; T. xerographica can form a much wider rosette.
• Mounts: Many species attach to wood, cork or an open holder without potting compost.
• Light: Bright filtered light is suitable for many, with species-specific differences.
• Watering: Wet the leaves thoroughly and let them dry promptly with good airflow.

Tillandsia live in varied habitats across the Americas, from humid forests to open, seasonally dry landscapes. Many attach to branches or rock using roots that mainly anchor the plant.

Their leaves carry tiny scales called trichomes, which can absorb moisture from rain and mist. Dense scales give some species their silvery appearance. Mature rosettes may produce new offsets after flowering, allowing a plant to develop a small group over time.

Tillandsia air plants

Tillandsia ionantha forms a small rosette, while T. caput-medusae has distinctive curling leaves. The larger, silvery T. xerographica makes a broad, open rosette, and T. usneoides hangs in long, soft strands. The collection also includes mixed air-plant sets and a plant with a display stand.

Many tillandsias grow attached to branches or rocks and can be displayed on wood, cork or in open holders. Their leaves absorb water through specialised scales, so good airflow matters after watering. Bright filtered light is a useful starting point, although greener and more silvery species may prefer different exposure.

Water by a thorough rinse or suitable soak, taking care to let water drain from the leaf bases. Plants in enclosed glass or poorly ventilated corners may remain wet for too long. A dry, open position after watering helps protect the crown.