Recommended Air Plants – Mother Earth Gardener

Photo from Creative Terrariums

Tillandsia xerographica (1)

This “queen of tillandsias,” as she is more commonly called, lives in the arid deserts of southern Mexico and Central America. In her native desert she drinks in the morning dew, so an occasional morning misting is a welcome treat. This species prefers direct sunlight but can live near a bright south-facing window in your home. If she’s thirsty you will know it! If you see her leaves begin to curl you know it’s time for a soak.

Tillandsia ionantha scaposa (2)

Native to Mexico and Guatemala, this species thrives in hot and humid environments. Known for their spiky green and compact foliage, they will grow dark silvery leaves in ample sunlight or dark green in shade. These are easy to display and glue to any number of objects. Mist them daily in dry climates.

Tillandsia Houston (3)

A cross between a T. stricta and T. recurvifolia with silvery leaves and violet highlighted tips. This rosette-shaped air plant shoots off spectacular pink blooms.

Tillandsia bulbosa Belize (4)

Native to Belize, these exotic lovelies have shiny green arms, giving them a distinct, fun appearance.

Tillandsia filifolia (5)

From Central Mexico all the way to Costa Rica this tillandsia prefers cooler temperatures and indirect sunlight. Air circulation is key to keeping this air plant happy.

Tillandsia harrisii (6)

Native to Guatemala, its velvety silver-green leaves love bright sunlight. Its dazzling red and purple blooms make it a favorite for terrarium displays.

Tillandsia araujei “Purple Star” (7)

Known for its spiky dark green leaves and lovely purple highlights. Its name comes from a river in Brazil where it grows on rocks and foliage.

Tillandsia caput-medusae (8)

Don’t worry, she won’t turn you into stone, but her snakelike leaves are reminiscent of her namesake from Greek mythology. A unique air plant from Central America, she’s outspoken and will tell you when she is thirsty. Her leaves will curl and then straighten again once she’s been watered.

Tillandsia brachycaulos abdita (9)

A lovely addition to any terrarium, this air plant starts off with soft green leaves that blush a deep red when they bloom.

More from Creative Terrariums:

Terrariums are a popular way to bring beautiful gardens indoors. For many who love growing green things but lack the backyard space, this hobby is an enjoyable and affordable option. Craft blogger Enid G. Svymbersky has made a name for herself creating terrariums with a modern twist. Her terrariums are known for having an intriguing and contemporary style. Complete with tips and tricks for re-creating your own stylish eco-systems, Creative Terrariums: 33 Modern Mini-Gardens for Your Home presents cutting-edge designs that will add a decorative organic presence to even the smallest room. Inside, you’ll learn step-by-step how to build and maintain unique mini-gardens full of lush, oxygen-boosting plants. The mini terrarium projects include memo boards, jars, fishbowls, dream catchers, and more that will fit on small tables, bookshelves, and window sills, hang on the wall, or can be displayed in any other tight places in the home.

Reprinted with permission from Creative Terrariums: 33 Modern Mini-Gardens for Your Home by Enid G. Svymbersky and published by Fox Chapel Publishing Company, Inc., 2019.