Tillandsia

Tillandsia is a fascinating genus of bromeliads that have become popular due to their ease of growth, unique plant form and the crafting possibilities they encourage. These air plants are epiphytic in nature, meaning that, like many orchids and some ferns, they are able to take in moisture and nutrients from surrounding air and humidity directly onto their leaves. They may be found growing on another plant, like a tree, but are not parasitic in nature.

We maintain a nice assortment of tillandsias all year

Spanish Moss, Tillandsia usenoides, is one variety that many of us are aware of as we have seen them in the humid south growing on live oaks and other trees.

Tillandsia can grow without soil, so are ideal for creating wall art, growing on rock and wood  or displaying in all sorts of fun vessels, including seashells.

Provide bright light and sufficient water to be rewarded by a durable plant with unforgettable shapes, colors and blooms. Plants grow from an offset at the base of the "mother" plant. Pups will reach maturity relatively fast. Once they bloom, expect another offset. Tillandsia can grow in clumps or be divided into individual specimens.

Ionantha Ball

Under watering tillandsia is the most common problem for the plant. Be sure to water them once a week. They will survive longer, but the leaves will dry out and begin to curl. I soak mine in water if it has been mounted on a frame, a shell or piece of driftwood. A larger plant could also be misted, but would need almost daily misting to keep the tillandsia healthy.

Here are varieties of tillandsia to consider for growing indoors

Aeranthos 

Araujei

Ionantha

Funkinana

Xerographica

Capitata Maroon Hybrid

Bulbosa Hybrid

Brachycaulos Abdita

Ionantha Fuego

 These and many more varieties, large and small, are now available in our greenhouse. We will be hosting a seminar on how to grow tillandsia and will offer a frame project to interested attendees on Saturday, February 17 at 9:00 am. Visit our website for information on this and other upcoming classes.

Thanks to Russell's Bromeliads for many of these wonderful photos. 

Many forms and sizes are available now.