Say hello to the coolest little plants on earth!
One of the sweetest things to hit "Amanda's Apothecary" is the air plant!
In our Apothecary announcement blog (catch it here if you missed it: https://bit.ly/AmandasApothecary_Launch), we touched on these "creatures" a little, but there's so much more to share -- and what surprises await you when you dive in a little deeper!
Super unique, visually enticing, fascinating, charming, delightful ... the positive adjectives seem to be endless.
Let's take a look:
They won't grow in soil.
Crazy #1, right?! Air plants don’t require soil or actually even containers, just a supportive spot to hang out.
Quirky Style
Maybe it's simply the fact they are not in soil. Or a pot. Or anything like you might normally think of for a plant. Not sure what the catalyst is but they almost feel like pets – with a quirky, squiggly, sometimes fuzzy appearance that is part plant, part creature, you might want to give yours a name!
Not blessed with a green thumb?
No worries! With their small size and undemanding nature, air plants make great alternatives to potted houseplants because they are so easy-breezy to care for. Plus, they don't take up much space, so even if you are in an apartment or don't have much land, you're in luck!
Think Your Family Tree is Weird?
"Air Plant" is the name we're all familiar with -- part of the Tillandsia genus, which is part of the Bromeliad family. Know what else is in the Bromeliad family? Pineapples! #funfact
Attachment Issues Are a Thing
An air plant is what is known as an "epiphyte" – meaning that rather than being stuck in the soil, they attach themselves to things ... almost any creative spot you can conceive. Sea shells, driftwood, wine corks ... hanging, swinging, sitting ... alone or nestled with friends!
Easy, but give em some love, too
Don't ignore your new friend! Yes, they are decorative but they are also a living thing and need air, light and water! Air plants should be kept where they'll receive bright, indirect sunlight or under fluorescent office lighting. And while you don't need to get a babysitter when you go out of town for a bit, we recommend giving them a rinsing under running water or letting them soak in a gentle water bath for 20-30 minutes. Once soaked, shake the plants to remove any excess water from the base and the leaves and set out to dry. If they need a little drink in between baths, mist with a spray bottle.
Dirty Water is Best
This might be the only time you hear that!
But, yes, air plants like dirty water full of goodies. Their favorites include water from lakes, ponds, rain barrels and even birdbaths. They do not appreciate distilled water at all.
Once in a lifetime ...
... an air plant will flower! Tillandsias are tropical plants that usually live for several years and will bloom and produce flowers ... but only one time during their life! The flowers are striking and brilliantly colored, so you're certainly in for a treat when it happens!