Commonly known as air plants, the genus Tillandsia includes a diverse range of mostly epiphytic plants that, in their natural habitats, survive attached to other plants. Their lack of a substantial root system means they’re rarely grown in pots with soil, and instead are attached to cork bark or rocks, or can even be placed singly on a windowsill.
Tillandsia caerulea is rather slight in appearance, with tapering silver stems and leaves. The flowers of this species are lavender-coloured and appear on the end of long, wiry stems.
For best results, grow Tillandsia caerulea in bright light out of direct sun. An airy spot is ideal as this species doesn't like to stay wet for long after watering. Water by misting every few weeks or by dunking the whole plant in water, ideally rainwater.
Tillandsia and wildlife
Tillandsia has no particular known value to wildlife in the UK.
