Tillandsia

Air plants are tropical (or warm-temperate), evergreen, epiphytic herbaceous perennials in the pineapple family (Bromeliaceae). They are native to the southern USA, Mexico and South America and can be found in forests, deserts and mountains – and on powerlines and buildings. The genus name honors 17th-century botanist and physician Elias Tillandz of Sweden.

Most species are easy to grow as houseplants but they demand high light levels if they are to flower. Most species can tolerate full sun in nature, so the sunniest window in the home is not too much sun. Light levels can be supplemented with LED grow lights. Air plants have holdfast roots that cannot absorb enough water to supply the leaves. Instead, the leaves are covered with silvery gray, shield-shaped scales that absorb water and nutrients. Many growers plunge the entire plant into a bucket of water or pop the plants under the running shower to ensure that the plants are adequately moistened. Although the plants cope with drought, they need regular watering (at least once a week) if they are to thrive. If the plants get adequate light, they will produce flowers, either directly among the leaves (T. ionantha and T. usneoides) or on long inflorescences. Many reproduce by making "pups" which can be used for propagating new plants. Starting by seed is possible but a very slow process.

Tillandsia is a genus of over 600 species of rosette bromeliads. They come in a variety of shapes and sizes and are avidly collected by enthusiasts. The plants are usually silvery gray (appearing green when wet), but some cultivars have reddish foliage. The inflorescences are usually colorful, showy and long-lasting. Flower color is green, white, yellow, blue, purple or pink. Some species have scented flowers.

These plants can be grown in (on) pots but are commonly grown as epiphytes attached to driftwood, shells, rocks or planks of wood, bark or cork. 

Quick ID

• Epiphytic rosettes with no roots or few, wiry roots
• Leaves are straplike, succulent, covered with gray scales

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems: Problems that occur with most houseplants like mealybug, scale, or crown rot.