Air plants look as if they came from another planet, but they’re native to the Americas, ranging from the southern United States to Argentina. In the wild, they use their roots to hang on the bark of trees, feeding on rainwater and bird poop they absorb through their leaves. There are more than 600 species and varieties of air plants, also called Tillandsias.
They usually have strap-like leaves that grow in a rosette pattern with new growth coming from the center of the plant. The foliage may be silver or green, spiky or fuzzy, and some produce flowers in shades of red, pink or purple that last from a few days to a few months. Most air plants are tiny, ranging from 2″ to 12″ tall.
These quirky plants don’t need soil, but they can’t live on air alone. Here’s what you need to know to keep air plants healthy.
Air Plant Care
Don’t let the lack of soil scare you away—air plants are easy to care for once you know what they need. You may not have to worry about potting them, but they do still need a certain amount of water and light, plus the right temperatures, just like any other houseplant. You’ll know that an air plant is getting what it needs when it sends up flowers. Once the flower dries out, just snip it off and your air plant will keep on growing and eventually making more blooms.
Light levels
Tillandsia enjoy bright but diffused light, so provide light shade from direct sunshine, particularly under glass. A position in a south-facing window behind a net curtain is ideal.
Temperature
Plants do best if the temperature does not drop below 12°C (54°F) and can tolerate a maximum of 30°C (86°F) if relative humidity is high.
Watering
In your home, you’ll need to water your air plants about once a week—some varieties can go two weeks without being watered. Keep an eye on them to determine when your plants seems to need a drink.
Here are 3 great Tillandsia species and cultivars to consider for indoor growing:
1.Sky Plant (Tillandsia ionantha)
Tillandsia ionantha is one of the most popular air plants. Dozens of cultivars are available, but the species version is very popular, partly because it is extremely hardy and hard to kill. Tillandsia ionantha is an attractive plant, with layers silvery-green leaves that deepen in color as they grow and extend. The leaves turn shades of red and pink before the plant blooms with beautiful violet blossoms.
2. Tillandsia Fuchsii
Tillandsia Fuchsii is fun and easy to grow! this iconic air plant looks like a little porcupine with silvery leaves. Display your Tillandsia Fuchsii in a glass terrarium, crystal air planter, or any small planter you like.
3. Tillandsia Kolby
The Tillandsia kolby has compact, fuzzy leaves that are a soft green color. With proper care, they may also produce beautiful, unique blooms in red, orange, or purple.