Tillandsia utriculata
TAXONOMY
FamilyBromeliaceae
GenusTillandsia
Zone10
LEARN MORE
Plants of the World OnlineABOUT
Tillandsia utriculata, commonly known as the giant airplant, is a species of bromeliad native to Florida, the Caribbean, and Central America. It is an epiphyte, meaning it grows on other plants for support but is not parasitic. This plant thrives in wet tropical climates and is known for its large, rosette-shaped leaves and striking inflorescence.
ALSO KNOWN AS
Allardtia Potockii
Giant Airplant
Jumbie-Pineapple
Platystachys Ehrenbergiana
Platystachys Ehrenbergii
Wild Pine
Anoplophytum flexuosum var. pallidum
Platystachys utriculata
Tillandsia bartramii
Tillandsia brevibracteata
Tillandsia ehrenbergiana
Tillandsia ehrenbergii
Tillandsia flexuosa var. pallida
Tillandsia lingulata
Tillandsia nuttalliana
Tillandsia ramosa
Tillandsia ramosa var. cingstuniensis
Tillandsia sintenisii
Tillandsia utriculata f. variegata
Tillandsia utriculata subsp. utriculata
Vriesea ramosa
Vriesea utriculata
OVERVIEW
VPDCalculate
WaterVery Wet
SoilPeaty
LightIndirect Bright (12 Hours)
Temperature25° C
Humidity70%
pH5.5
Pressure1,013 mbar
DETAILS
Care Instructions
Tillandsia utriculata requires bright, indirect light and high humidity to thrive. It prefers moderate temperatures and should be kept away from direct sunlight to prevent leaf burn. Regular misting or soaking is necessary to maintain moisture levels, especially in drier environments.Soil
As an epiphyte, Tillandsia utriculata does not require traditional soil. Instead, it can be mounted on various substrates like wood, cork, or rocks. Ensure good air circulation around the plant to prevent rot.Fertilizer
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer with a nutrient composition of 17-8-22. Fertilize monthly during the growing season by diluting the fertilizer to half strength and applying it during watering.Repotting
Tillandsia utriculata does not need repotting in the traditional sense. However, if it outgrows its current mount or if the mount deteriorates, you can reattach it to a new substrate. Ensure the new mount provides good air circulation and support.Propagation
Propagation is typically done through offsets or 'pups' that form at the base of the plant. Once the pups are about one-third the size of the parent plant, they can be carefully removed and mounted separately.Pruning
Pruning is generally not required for Tillandsia utriculata. However, you can remove any dead or damaged leaves to maintain the plant's appearance and health.Toxicity
Tillandsia utriculata is non-toxic to pets and humans. It is safe to have around children and animals.Additional
Ensure the plant is placed in a well-ventilated area to prevent fungal infections. Regularly check for pests like mealybugs and treat them promptly if found.REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR PLANT CARE
Make Every Plant Smart
Plant Monitor
STAYS IN YOUR PLANT
Accurately measures the core metrics of your plant – soil moisture, light, temperature and humidity - as well as compound metrics such as Vapor Pressure Deficit (VPD) and Growing Degree Days (GDD).
Shop Now
