Air Plants Make Unique and Interesting Houseplants
Air plants, also known as Tillandsia, are unique houseplants in the Bromeliad family. They grow without soil, absorbing moisture and nutrients through their leaves. These epiphytes are native to tropical and subtropical North and South America, often found clinging to trees and branches. They have evolved over millions of years, syncing with pollinators like hummingbirds. While they use other plants for support, they do not harm or take any nutrients from the host plant
There are two main types of air plants; mesic, which originates from humid regions such as the rainforests in South America. The leaves are greener, smoother and shinier. Xeric have their origins in drier regions with desert-like climates and are often rock dwellers. The leaves have a fuzzier appearance, are wider and have a greyish-green to grey color.
Air plants became popular houseplants in the last decade. In the home, air plants thrive in bright, indirect light or full-spectrum fluorescent lighting. Avoid direct sunlight as it will burn the leaves. The ideal temperature in the home ranges from 50 to 90°F.
Air plants do not get planted in soil. This makes for interesting and fun ways to display them. They can be used in terrariums, as wall art, placed on driftwood or in glass globes or hanging planters. Any surface that provides the correct lighting, good air circulation, dries quickly and makes it easy to water the plants will work.
To water submerge the whole plant in room-temperature water for 20-30 minutes. This should be done weekly, and preferably in the morning. Use filtered, tap, bottled, rainwater, and even aquarium water—not distilled or softened water. Mist between watering. Air plants should never sit in water, as rot will occur.
After soaking, remove the plant from the water and gently shake to prevent water from pooling in the leaves, as this can cause rot. Place the plant upside down for about 30 minutes up to 3 hours to dry thoroughly. Return the plant to its growing location.
Air plants benefit from a balanced all-purpose fertilizer at half or quarter strength every third or fourth time they are watered. Add the fertilizer to the water they are being soaked in. A specialized fertilizer for bromeliads can also be used.
Air plants bloom once in a lifetime. The flowers vary in color and shape, but tend to be bright pinks, purples and reds. The blooms can last several days to several months, depending on the species. Once it is done flowering, the plant will die. However, the plant produces new offsets that will form to replace the original plant.
As air plants grow, they form offsets called pups. Once the pups are about a third of the size of the mother plant, they can be gently separated and grown on their own, or the pups can be left in place allowing the plant to form a clump or ball. If left to clump, remove leaves of the mother plant as she starts to dry up. Simply pull the leaves out with gentle sideways tug. Once the mother plant is removed, the gap will be filled in quickly by the other plants growing and spreading.
Air plants have few pests; however, they can be susceptible to mealybugs and scale insects. These can be removed with a damp cotton swab. Avoid using neem oil on air plants as it creates a barrier on the leaves, preventing it from absorbing water. Other problems include rot, dehydration, and incorrect light exposure. Ensure proper care to avoid these issues.
During the summer, air plants can be moved outdoors to a bright but shady area. Follow the same routine of watering and fertilizing as if they were indoors. Bring the plants back inside before freezing temperatures arrive.
Air plants can live 2-5 years and produce enough pups to live indefinitely. They typically grow 2-12 inches tall indoors but can reach up to seven feet in their natural habitat.
Chris Jacobs
Certified Master Gardener