My Creative Workbook

Christine de Beer - effortless floral craftsman

Tillandsia

Plants with thin needle-like leaves (trichomes) grow in moist environments with a higher rainfall and the thick more fleshy leaves indicate plants that can withstand drought. All air plants are epiphytes and will absorb moisture and nutrients from their environment. Some of the popular ones are Tillandsia ionantha, Tillandsia xerographica, Tillandsia caput-medusae (used in the design pictured), and Tillandsia circinnata. Spanish moss is also referred to as Tillandsia. See Tillandsia Usneoides

Succulent and Air Plant Boutonniere design for my video:Getting Creative with Boutstix Magnet Stix: Succulent and Air Plant Boutonniere

Common name

Air plants

Origin

Central to South America, Mexico, North America and Southern United States of America

Varieties

There are about 540 species that belong to the Bromeliad family (Bromeliaceae)

Colors

Light hairy green but can change colour when flowering

Vase life

Will continue to grow and produce pups if used as a plant and the leaves will last as long as succulents if separated in a design

Scent

Uses

Popular as terrarium designs and also dramatic contemporary bridal work. Glue or wire the plant directly into the design either as a leaf, plant or group them to create greater visual value

Conditioning

Remove the plants from the design and soak for a few hours 2 times a week. Let the water drain away before designing. You can also mount the plant onto something that can be submerged in water so that you do not need to remove it when hydrating. Do not design in water or a water retaining medium such as moss.

Every week I add a new design with related tutorials. Be sure to subscribe to receive an email notification with design inspiration.

Related Designs