Tillandsia 'lonantha red' (Air Plant)

Tillandsia 'Ionantha red' is a variety of air plant, is a species of plant in the genus Tillandsia, from the family Bromeliad. This variety is native to Central America and Mexico where it grows commonly in an epiphytic way (Using other plants for support and a place to live) the environment in which they live is warm and humid tropical rainforest. They are known as airplanes because they don't typically grow in soil but instead use trichomes to absorb nutrients and moisture directly from the air!

Care Difficulty: Easy care needs.

Light requirements: For best results pop in a spot where it will receive bright but indirect light, away from radiators. Avoid direct sunlight as this can scorch the leaves.

Humidity: Loves humidity, be careful not to leave any excess water on the leaves as these can cause the plant to rot. You can give it regular misting between waters using lukewarm water or place in a room near a humidifier.

Watering: Water every week to every 10 days by soaking the leaves in water for 20 minutes to an hour (Make sure that you don't get the 'root' wet as this will lead to rot) Shake them afterwards to remove excess water. Make sure they are completely dry before putting back in place.

Toxicity: Non toxic to humans and pets

Fertilising: Doesn't need much feeding but if you do want to make sure you use a fertiliser that is tailored to air plants. This can be done when you soak your plants or using foliar fertiliser when you mist your plants. Follow the instructions on the fertiliser packaging for proper application. As a general rule don't feed in winter.

Repotting: As an epiphyte air plants do not need to be planted in soil. Place in a terrarium, on wood, in shells to display your air plants.