The tillandsia plant (commonly called air plant) is a different type of houseplant. It is an epiphyte which means that they do not grow in soil, but live off the air.

The root system attaches itself to tree stems, or rocks and then the plant absorbs moisture and nutrients through their trichomes which are small furry scales found on the foliage. Tillandsia is  a member of the Bromeliad family and can be found growing naturally outdoors in warm climates, in rainforests, jungles and deserts, but they can also be grown indoors as a novelty houseplant.

Tillandsia  is an easy houseplant to grow, as they need very little care. They need bright indirect light, such as an east, west, or filtered south window. Keep them out of direct sun.

Moisture is important to any plants health including the tillandsia. The amount of moisture needed depends on the air humidity. If the air is dry the plant will need to be given moisture more often then if the humidity is high. Generally a tillandsia should be given moisture every 2-3 days. You will know when it needs water as the leaves begin to curl or roll up. The method to use when watering the plant is to saturate it in water until the water runs off the plant, or it can be misted. In cases when the plant becomes very dry, the plant can be submerged in water for 3-4 hours. Rain water is ideal. Every 4-5 weeks the plant can be misted with a weak solution of liquid fertilizer mixed with water to help it grow. Air circulation is also important as this is how the plant gets its nutrients and also helps prevent disease.

The unique thing about growing tillandsia  is that you can place or attach them on different surfaces. Rocks, shells, driftwood, cork are a few of the more common surfaces. A new trend is to place them in a clear glass globe terrarium  that has holes in it for air circulation. It looks like a Christmas ball that can be hung.

The tillandsia can be placed in the globe on its own or have things added to it. A few colourful rocks, sand or bark chips are placed in the bottom of the ball along with a small piece of moss and the then the plant is placed on top. The hanging terrarium is then hung in a window. It is perfect for small spaces.

There are several different types of tillandsia  available at the garden centres. 'Caput-medusae' has a bulb shaped base with thick grey/green curly leaves that twist up from the base. Other varieties have long thin spike like foliage, while others have thicker leaves that look like the top of a pineapple.

Tillandsia  hase interesting foliage and it also produces  flowers. The flowers are different on different plants. Some flowers may last for a few days while others can last for months.

Tillandsia would make a nice gift for anyone who enjoys plants but doesn’t have a lot of space, or for those who are looking for something different. Don't just give them all away, as you will want to have at least one for yourself!

-Jos

Jos VanHage owns and operates two Art Knapp Home and Garden Centres in Prince George

• Highway 16 west at  Kimball Reoad
• Highway 97 North at Northwood Pulpmill Road