Tillandsia xerographica is an air plant native to semi-arid regions Mexico, El Salvador, Guatemala, and Honduras. In nature, this plant is found in dry forest environments. Like other air plants, it grows on trees (epiphyte) or on rocks (lithophyte).
The xerographica is slow growing and absorbs nutrients through its thick curly leaves from the morning dew.
Care
When caring for any plant, it is good to mimic its natural habitat in your home as much as possible.However, this can be challenge, depending on light and humidity levels. The good news is that the xerographica is low maintenance and easy to grow.
Watering
The xerographica is drought tolerant and doesn’t require high humidity levels.
For watering any tillandsia air plant, rain water or water from fresh water aquariums, ponds, and streams are optimal.
However, you can use spring, tap, or filtered water. You can add a little liquid fertilizer formulated orchids and bromeliads to the tap or filtered water. You don’t need to add it each time your water.
Note: Avoid using distilled water on any tillandsia. Because it has zero nutrients, you air plant will not survive.
Watering Methods
Using room temperature water, choose one of these watering methods that works best for your plant and home environment situation.
- Light misting once per day – lightly mist the xerographic air plant each morning.
- Shower – briefly shower once per month.
- Soak (only if severely dry) – soak this air plant in a bowl or sink for at least 30 minutes. Note: Be sure to submerge face down so that the root base is not submerged.
After a shower or soak, shake off excess water and allow the plant to dry face down in an area with good air circulation.
Note: It is important to allow excess water to drain from leaf crevices and dry completely. Too much moisture will cause rot.
Lighting
The xerographica needs bright indirect light. Find the brightest space in your home for this air plant. Some direct, morning sunlight is okay but not for prolonged periods. Too much direct sun will deplete its moisture and dry out.
Artificial light is a good alternative if you don’t get a lot of natural bright light. Use a broad spectrum grow light for approximately 10 to 12 hours. These lights are energy efficient and won’t run up your electric bill.
Humidity
Because the xerographica is native to semi-arid regions, low to moderate humidity is good for this plant. This is good news if you live in a dry region or have trouble keep humidity levels high in your home.
Substrate
Tillandsia plants are quite versatile and portable. You can display them almost anywhere in your home and on any natural surface or objects…but don’t put them in soil.
Ideal materials to display your air plant on are natural rocks or pebbles; virgin drift wood, bark, cork, dried cholla wood; unfinished sea shells; or natural burlap fiber, to name a few. Ceramic containers also make great displays.
Avoid using soil or any surface with an artificial finish that is toxic.
