What is an Air Plant – Tillandsia?
Tillandsia are part of the Bromeliad family, the Genus name is Tillandsia, but most people call them Air Plants. There are over 600 species of Tillandsia (plus many hybrids) that grow in Mexico, South and Central Americas. There are only 16 species that are native to florida and most are endangered. Tillandsias take in all their water and nutrients through the leaf system, none or very minimal amounts are absorbed by the root system. They roots are used as wire like anchors to hold onto trees, rocks etc. Since the root system is not important to the plant it can be removed without harm, to make your plant easier to mount. Growth Cycle Bromeliad Tillandsia have a life cycle of one plant growing to maturity and blooming. Before, during or after blooming (depending on the species), your plant will start producing young (PUPS). Most plants will produce between 2-8 pups which in return will mature, generally within a year and in turn will bloom and produce pups. Say this year you have one p
