Tillandsia Bromeliads
Tillandsias are generally bromeliads that grow above the ground attached to rotting wood or living trees. This bromeliad genus can also be found growing on objects such as cactus plants and rocks This tendency to grow above the soil is why many are often referred to as air plants. Spanish moss is one of the most well known and widely kept plants in the tillandsia group. Tillandsia Description
Grey or silver green leaf colours are often seen amongst the Tillandsias. The silver grey is often attributed to light coloured scales that allow the tillandsia to feed and uptake water without the need for roots. When the plant is approaching flower pinks and reds are also shown in the foliage by some species.
Many are prized for their flowers and these may take many years until they form. The inflorescence can often be very striking and unusual in both shape and colour. Some tillandsia flowers are also perfumed with sweet aromas.
Other tillandsias are grown as foliage epiphytes and attached to logs or shells. Unlike many other bromeliads tillandsias are rarely divided by their owners. When clumps form the plants become interesting garden features.
Growing Conditions
As a general rule the grey or furry leaf tillandsias should always be grown as an epiphyte attached to an objest such as a tree, piece of cork, hardwood or tree fern trunk. Many green leaf tillansdias will also grow this way but they will typically also thrive in pots.
Tillandsia care requirements differ from the other bromeliads which are usually kept potted. Green leaf species are generally more adapted to humid environments while the grey leaf forms are from more arid regions. This should be kept in mind when caring for your tillandsias.
Tillandsia bromeliads will benefit from regular watering. Allow them to dry out somewhat between drinks. In winter this may mean weekly waterings Summer gardeners may find it neccessary to perform this duty 3-4 times per week, particularly when the air is dry.
Plants can either be sprayed with a mist of water, hosed or emmersed completely in water where convenient. Pot grown tillandsias should also have their foliage watered in this way in addition to root watering.
Growing tillandsias can be slow but regular fertliser is a must for the fastest growth possible. To feed tillandsias a weak fertiliser solution should be applied. Choose a fertiliser without urea as the nitrogen source as this cannot be used by these bromeliads.
Regarding position the level of light required for best growth will vary. Bright shade will be a happy environment for most tillandisas however. If you have a well lit room they can also be housed indoors. Bright bathrooms are ideal because the plants will have regular periods of high humidity.
