Incredible Plants!: Basic tillandsia care and cultivation

Tillandsia aeranthos

Tillandsias: Unique, beautiful & fun!

Tillandsias, popularly known as air plants or aerophytes, are part of the bromeliad family. There are over 600 species of tillandsia, and they are named after Dr. Elias Tillandz, (1640-1693), a Swedish doctor and botanist. They grow in the tropic and sub-tropic regions of Central and South America, the southern United States, and West Indies. (The best known bromeliad is the pineapple!) Incredibly, they grow on the branches and trunks of trees, and even on rocks, without soil! They use tiny hairs on their leaves called trichomes to take up nutrients and water. So, their roots are only used to anchor the plants in place. In fact, some species never grow roots. This unique ability makes tillandsias very versatile and popular for indoor and outdoor gardens. They do best in temperatures ranging from 45-95 degrees F./7-35 degrees C.. Tillandsias bloom and have very dramatic foliage. After blooming, tillandsias create as many as 10-12 offsets called "pups" at their bases.

Here's how to care for them in Southern California:

Where: Tillandsias most important growing condition is bright filtered light. Outdoors they do best in shade or partial shade. A covered patio is ideal. Indoors, place them within 6 feet of a window or under flourescent lights. They should not be placed in direct sunlight.

Watering: Contrary to popular belief, tillandsias do require water. It's best to wet them thoroughly 2-3 times per week, in the early to late morning in order for them to be dry within 4-5 hours. Alternatively, you can soak them for 1 hour in water per week. In hot, dry weather, water more often. Misting during hot weather between waterings will help reduce plant stress. In cool, humid weather, water less often. The key is to be aware of weather conditions, and to adjust your watering times and frequency accordingly. If they are in shells or other containers without any drainage, be sure to empty them after watering. Tillandsias do not tolerate being wet for extended periods of time. They are very forgiving, and will revive after a 7-8 hour soaking.

Fertilizing: Monthly using a high quality fertilizer at 1/4-1/5 strength or dilution. Just add fertilzer to water and soak plants for 1 hour.

For additional information, the Bromeliad Society International, website: www.bsi.org, has a wealth of information. Or please visit this website again for new plant introductions, announcements, and more information.

Enjoy your tillandsias!