As summer moves in and your exterior gardening and landscape is done, it’s time to turn your sights on houseplants. Few are more low-maintenance and easy to care for than Tillandsia, also known as Air Plants. They get their name from the fact that they don’t root in the ground, but rather cling to things like tree branches, rocks, bark, and even telephone poles.
There are hundreds of varieties of air plant, some with broad pointy leaves, others with thin wispy ones, and many of them produce brightly colored blooms. The large, silver Xerographica makes a stunning centerpiece, while smaller ones, like Funckiana or Bulbosa are great accent pieces, perfectly sized for a desk or side table. Try filling terrariums or bowls for an eye-catching display!
While they are low-maintenance, there are a few rules to follow to keep your air plant healthy. They need good air circulation at all times, and avoid keeping them in containers with absorbent materials, like soil. They like bright, indirect light indoors, and dappled light or partial shade outdoors (if you do keep your air plant outside, check the cold-hardiness of the variety, as some can’t survive North Texas winters). Soak the roots 2 to 3 times a week, depending on variety and temperature, and since air plants love humidity, occasional misting will keep them looking their best.
Stop by our gift shop to see the many varieties, and different ways you can display them. Whether you’re a seasoned green thumb, or just starting out, spend more time enjoying, and less time taking care of, a beautiful new Tillandsia.
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