Talk about easy! Air plants are probably the least demanding houseplants you can grow. That’s because these amazing plants are epiphytes, which means they don’t need soil to survive. Instead, in the wild, they attach themselves to the bark of trees and gather moisture and nutrients from the air, rain, plant debris that gathers around them. Other common epiphytes include orchids, bromeliads, and some types of ferns.

Native to the tropics, Air plants, also known as Tillandsia, will thrive in any room in your home as long as they receive some bright, indirect light (never put them in full sun). Air Plants also love humidity so placing them in your bathroom or kitchen is ideal. All they require is a light misting every week to ten days to keep them hydrated.

Besides being almost foolproof, I also love air plants for their spiky or contorted leaves that come in various shades of gray, silver, or cream. They remind me of little pineapples, which makes sense because they are both in the same family. And, as someone who travels a lot, I appreciate the fact that my air plants won’t mind a bit if I take off for a week without hiring a plant sitter while I’m gone.

Kids find air plants fascinating, too! When my sons were little they both had a collection of air plants they’d use in prehistoric dioramas or as living “shrubbery” in front of their Lego castles. If these tough little plants could survive being manhandled by excited little boys, I guarantee they’ll thrive in your home.

Here's Everything You Need to Know About Air Plants! 

Written by Doug Jimerson