Air plants (Tillandsias) are known for their sculptural beauty and ability to grow without soil—but they still need the right care to thrive.
At Air Plants World, we specialize in sustainably cultivating and exporting three of the most iconic Tillandsia varieties:
✅ Tillandsia xerographica
✅ Tillandsia caput-medusae
✅ Tillandsia ionantha
In this simple care guide, we’ll walk you through how to keep these unique plants thriving with just a few minutes of attention each week.
💧 Watering: Balance Is Key
Although Tillandsias don’t grow in soil, they still need regular watering to stay healthy.
🌱 How Often to Water:
- Once a week in mild, indoor climates
- Twice a week in dry, hot, or air-conditioned environments
- Every 10–14 days for xeric varieties like Xerographica
🚿 How to Water:
- Soak your plant fully in water for 30 to 60 minutes
- After soaking, shake off excess water
- Let the plant dry upside down to avoid rot
💡 Use rainwater or filtered water when possible. Tap water with chlorine can harm your plant over time.
☀️ Light: Bright but Indirect
Tillandsias love light, but not harsh, direct sun.
✅ Best lighting conditions:
- Near a bright window with filtered light
- Under grow lights (LED full-spectrum)
- Morning sun is fine—midday sun can be too intense
⚠️ Avoid:
- Full direct sun for long periods
- Dark rooms or spots with no natural or artificial light
🌬️ Airflow: Let Them Breathe
Air circulation is just as important as light and water.
- Always let plants dry within 2–4 hours after watering
- Avoid placing them in closed terrariums or glass without ventilation
- Keep them in open areas or near windows with gentle airflow
💨 Good airflow prevents rot and helps the plant “breathe” through its leaves.
Varieties We Grow & How to Care for Each
Tillandsia Xerographica – The Queen of Air Plants
- Size: Large and elegant rosette
- Light: Loves bright, indirect light—can handle gentle morning sun
- Water: Every 10–14 days (less often than smaller varieties)
- Drying: Must dry completely upside down
- Pro Tip: This plant is slow-growing but long-living—some live over 10 years!
Tillandsia Caput-Medusae – The Sculptural Beauty
- Size: Medium, with twisty, tentacle-like leaves
- Light: Moderate to bright indirect
- Water: Weekly soak or generous misting
- Ideal For: Mounting on driftwood, rocks, or hanging displays
- Pro Tip: Its thick leaves store water, so don’t overwater
Tillandsia Ionantha var. Ionantha – The Compact Favorite
- Size: Small and hardy
- Light: Bright indirect light is perfect
- Water: 1–2 times a week depending on environment
- Color: Blushes red/pink before blooming and produces purple flowers
- Pro Tip: After flowering, it produces pups—these can be separated to grow your collection!
✅ Extra Care Tips
- Fertilize once a month with a bromeliad-safe fertilizer (no copper)
- Dust the leaves occasionally with clean water to keep them breathing
- Trim dried leaf tips with sterilized scissors (optional)
- Don’t pot them in soil—these are air plants, not houseplants!
With just a bit of weekly attention, your Tillandsia xerographica, caput-medusae, or ionantha can thrive for years—adding elegance, life, and a natural touch to any room or project.
They’re perfect for:
- Home decor
- Office accents
- Terrariums and hanging installations
- Retail shops, gift sets, or floral arrangements
📩 Need Support or Looking to Buy Wholesale?
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✔️ Email: sales@airplantsworld.com
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