Tillandsia Xerographica (Air plant)

Botanical & Common Names
- Botanical name: Tillandsia Xerographica
- Common names: Air Plant

Background & Origin
Tillandsia xerographica is one of the most striking members of the Bromeliad family, often nicknamed the “King of Air Plants” for its impressive size and dramatic form. It is native to Mexico, El Salvador, Guatemala, and Honduras, where it grows in semi-arid, sunny regions. Thriving in dry conditions, its name comes from the Greek word “xeros,” meaning dry — a nod to its exceptional drought tolerance and natural adaptation to bright, exposed environments.

Care Level
- Care level: Easy
- Suitable for beginners: Yes!

What It Loves
- Bright indirect sunlight with some direct sunlight!
- A consistent watering routine

What It Dislikes
- Not being allowed to dry out
- To little light

Best Rooms for This Plant
- Living rooms
- Bathroom
- Kitchens
- Bedrooms
-Conservatories

Growth Potential
- Typical height indoors: Up 15-90 tall with time
- Typical spread: Up to 15-60 cm wide
- Growth rate: slow growers
- Pruning required: Occasional, to remove dead leaves.

Is This Plant Right for You?
This plant is a great choice if you:
- Low-maintenance charm: Striking look without extra effort.
- Warm spot with bright sunlight
- Like Soilless plant

Light
- Best light: Warm spot with bright, indirect light with some direct sunlight being ideal
- Avoid: Dark sunless spot

Watering
- Frequency: Water once to twice a month (Xerographica species need less water then Mesic species) 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.
- Seasonal note: Reduce watering in winter when growth slows.

Humidity
- Prefers: Some Humidity
- Extra humidity helpful?: 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.

Feeding
- Feed with: A plant food specific to Air Plants
- Frequency: 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.

Toxicity
- Pet safe: Yes
- Notes: Keep out of reach of pets and small children to avoid damage to leaves.

Repotting
- How often: Does not need repotting as not planted in soil
- Signs it’s needed: Place in a terrarium, on wood, in shells to display your air plants.