If you’re looking for a houseplant that’s as unique as it is low-maintenance, let me introduce you to air plants, members of the Tillandsia genus in the Bromeliad family. I first became acquainted with Tillandsia circa 2007, when I was invited to tour the Epcot Flower and Garden Festival at Walt Disney World in Florida. The larger-than-life Disney character topiaries were blanketed in flowers, succulents, ivy, moss — and a variety of air plants. I was amazed by them.
The quirky little curiosities, which are related to pineapples, are native to tropical and subtropical regions of North and South America, where -- instead of growing in soil -- they cling to trees, rocks and even buildings without parasitizing or harming their hosts. Since they do not have roots, air plants depend on specialized cells called trichomes that allow their leaves to absorb moisture and nutrients.
Sun exposure. Air plants require bright, indirect light, so should be placed near an east- or west-facing window, but not directly in front of it. Direct sunlight can scorch their leaves. Watering. In homes with average humidity levels, soak air plants once a week by placing them in a bowl of room-temperature water for 30-60 minutes; in homes with dry air, more frequent soaking may be necessary.
