What are air plants, airplants or Tillandsias?

Air plants – what kind of plants are they, actually? They go by different names, such as air plants or airplants, but the official name is: Tillandsia

A Tillandsia is a plant that doesn't need soil to survive, as it grows on branches or rocks. Plants like this are often parasites, but the Tillandsia isn't.

The word for this is an epiphyte. Epiphytes grow on plants without taking nutrients from them. They use the plant to reach a location where they can get air and light. They get their nutrients from the air, light and rainwater.

What can you do with air plants?

You can do so many creative things with air plants. They can hang upside down, so you can put them in a shell. You can also stick or glue air plants onto a piece of wood or a tree stump. The glue we use for air plants is acid-free and waterproof. (Buy air plant glue here)

You can also simply lay air plants loose on a tray that you've nicely decorated with decorative sand and candles.

As long as air plants get enough daylight, they'll be very happy. And of course, don't forget to water them regularly with a spray bottle. You can also give air plants a little dip bath.