Air Plant

Tillandsia ionanthaAlso known as: Tillandsia, Sky Plant, Blushing Bride

Tillandsia ionantha is one of the most popular air plants, native to Central and South America. These fascinating plants absorb water and nutrients through their leaves rather than roots, allowing creative display options without soil. Growing 2-3 inches (5-8 cm) tall, they turn vibrant red when about to bloom.

Moderate Care

Bright Indirect Light

Perennial

Quick Care Summary

Light
Bright Indirect Light

Temperature Range
50-90°F (10-32°C)

Ideal Temp
70°F (21°C)

Pet Safe

This plant is non-toxic to cats and dogs. While it's safe to have around pets, ingestion of any plant material may still cause mild stomach upset.

Seasonal Care Schedule

Adjust your care routine based on the season for optimal plant health.

Watering Schedule

Season	Schedule
Spring	Soak 20-30 minutes weekly, mist 2-3 times between
Summer	Soak 20-30 minutes weekly, mist more frequently in heat
Fall	Soak weekly, mist 2-3 times between
Winter	Soak every 10-14 days, reduce misting

Shake excess water from center to prevent rot. Must dry within 4 hours of watering.

Misting Schedule

Season	Schedule
Spring	2-3 times per week between soakings
Summer	Daily in dry/hot conditions
Fall	2-3 times per week
Winter	1-2 times per week

Misting supplements soaking but doesn't replace it. Curled leaves indicate dehydration.

Fertilizing Schedule

Season	Schedule
Spring	Monthly with bromeliad or air plant fertilizer
Summer	Monthly, diluted in soak water
Fall	Monthly
Winter	Every 6-8 weeks

Use specialized tillandsia fertilizer diluted to 1/4 strength in soak water.

Pruning

Frequency: Remove dead leaves and spent bloom stalks

Best Season: After flowering

Gently pull away brown, dead leaves from base. Remove flower stalk when dried.

Repotting

Frequency: Not applicable - no soil needed

Best Season: Not applicable

Display on driftwood, in terrariums, shells, or mounted. Avoid copper and pressure-treated wood.

Flowering

Season
Varies, typically once in lifetime

Color
Purple tubular flowers, leaves turn red/pink before blooming

Monocarpic - blooms once then produces pups. The blushing red coloration before flowering is stunning.

Propagation Methods

Separate pups when 1/3 to 1/2 mother plant size
Pups appear at base after flowering
Mother plant can produce multiple pups before dying

Common Problems

Brown, crispy leaves: Underwatering or too much direct sun
Mushy base: Rot from water sitting in center - fatal, may be able to save pups
Gray, dull color: Normal variation or needs more humidity
No growth: Insufficient light or nutrients

Pro Tips

Soak in the morning so plant dries by evening
Never place in soil - will rot
Good air circulation is essential to prevent rot
After soaking, shake upside down and let dry on towel

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