Airplants

Common types: ionantha, xerographica, caput-medusae, bulbosa, stricta

Light
Bright, indirect light is perfect. A few hours of soft morning sun is great; avoid harsh midday rays, which can scorch.

Water
Soak, don’t pot. Submerge in room-temp water for 10–20 minutes once a week (2–3×/week in very dry rooms), then shake off excess and dry upside-down in bright airflow for 2–4 hours. Between soaks, you can mist lightly. In cool/dim seasons, water less but still fully dry after each rinse/soak.

Humidity & Temperature
Enjoy 40–60%+ humidity and constant airflow. Ideal temps 60–85°F; protect from cold drafts and heater blasts.

Soil & Fertilizing
No soil. Mount or place on wood, shells, or in an open vessel with good air circulation. Feed monthly in spring/summer with a bromeliad/epiphyte fertilizer (very dilute) added to the soak.

Pet Safety
Generally considered pet safe.

Native Region
Forests and deserts of the Americas (from the southern U.S. through Central & South America); they grow on trees/rocks as epiphytes.

Fun Fact
Air plants “breathe” through tiny leaf scales called trichomes, which absorb water and nutrients, that’s why good airflow and full drying are essential.