Air Plants

Winter is an opportune time to purchase or start growing air plants. Belonging to the genus Tillandsia and members of the Bromeliad family, air plants are tropical plants related to orchids that absorb water and nutrients primarily through their leaves rather than the roots.

There are over 550 species of Tillandsia (plus many hybrids), that are native to Mexico, South American and Central America. Only one species has been found outside the Americas. Sixteen species are natives of Florida.

Growth Cycle

Tillandsia bloom naturally in late winter through mid-summer. A new plant will generally bloom within a year and produce 2-8 young plants ("pups"). Each plant flowers just once in its lifetime, but subsequent generations will bloom each year at about the same time. Blooms last from several days to a few months, depending on the species.

Care and Maintenance

This root system of Tillandsia is used by the plant to hold onto trees, rocks, etc. The root system is not essential to the plant's health and can be removed without harm, making the plant easier to mount. The roots may or may not grow back, but either way will not effect the welfare of the plant.