Tillandsia

If you're looking for something a bit "out of this world," you really can’t go wrong with a Tillandsia—or as we usually call them, Air Plants.

They are absolutely fascinating because they don't need a single drop of soil to survive. They’re epiphytes, which means in the wild, they just cling onto tree branches or craggy rocks and take everything they need from the air and rain.

Origin

• They are native to the Central and South Americas, stretching from the southern United States all the way down to Argentina.

• Natural Habitat: You’ll find them in a massive range of environments, from humid, steamy rainforests to bone-dry deserts and high-altitude mountains.

Care Guide

• Light: They fancy a spot with bright, indirect sunlight. A kitchen windowsill that gets plenty of light but isn't scorched by the midday sun is perfect.

• Watering: Since they have no roots in soil, you’ll need to dunk them in a bowl of tepid rainwater (or tap water that’s sat out for a bit) for about 20–30 minutes once a week.

• Drying Out: This is the most important bit! After their bath, shake them gently and leave them upside down on a towel to dry completely. If water sits in the "cup" of the plant, they’ll rot, which is a real shame.

• Misting: If your home is particularly dry (thanks to the central heating), give them a light spritz with a mister a couple of times a week between soaks.

• Feeding: You can get specialist Bromeliad or Air Plant fertiliser. Just add a tiny bit to their soaking water once a month during the spring and summer.

Toxicity

• Pet & Child Friendly: You’ll be pleased to hear that Tillandsia are non-toxic.

• Safety: They are perfectly safe to have around curious cats, dogs, and little ones. However, their leaves can be a bit pointy or stiff, so it’s still best to keep them out of reach so the plant doesn’t get nibbled or bruised!

They look stunning tucked into a glass terrarium or even mounted on a piece of driftwood.

Colour and size may vary slightly.

Local plant delivery or collection available in Belfast and throughout Northern Ireland.