All About Tillandsia Harrisii
Tillandsia harrisii is a captivating epiphytic bromeliad that effortlessly captures the imagination with its ethereal beauty.
Native to the trees and rocks of Guatemala, this remarkable plant belongs to the vast and diverse family of bromeliads, renowned for their ability to thrive in unconventional environments.
With its delicate, silvery-green-purple leaves and a mesmerizing inflorescence that emerges in shades of purple and pink, Tillandsia harrisii evokes an otherworldly charm that captivates plant enthusiasts and collectors alike. Its unique growth habits and remarkable resilience make it a fascinating specimen to study and a coveted addition to any indoor garden or botanical display.
These are one of three species of air plants that are protected by CITES. They nearly went extinct in the wild due to poaching.
All About Caring for Harrisii
Caring for Tillandsia harrisii requires a few essential considerations to ensure its health and longevity. As an epiphyte, this unique bromeliad has adapted to obtain nutrients and moisture from the air and surrounding environment rather than through its roots.
To provide optimal care, it’s crucial to provide adequate air circulation and indirect, bright light. A location near a window or under fluorescent lights works well.
Regular misting or soaking once or twice a week, depending on the humidity of your environment, will help maintain its hydration. If you have hard water, use filtered or distilled water to prevent mineral buildup, as this can harm the plant over time. Always gently shake off excess water and dry upside down to prevent rot. Air plants should dry thoroughly within a few hours.
Additionally, a monthly bath in water with a mild bromeliad or orchid fertilizer can provide the necessary nutrients. Remember to gently shake off excess water to prevent rot and ensure the plant dries thoroughly within a few hours.
The leaves of harrisi and other similarly shaped air plants will fold inwards when they get too dry. This can be seen in the photo below. The plant on the left has leaves that are folded in a tubular shape while the plant on the right’s leaves are more open. Check out our video on How to Water Air Plants for more examples.
By following these guidelines, you can create an ideal environment for Tillandsia harrisii to thrive and display its unique beauty.
Read on to learn more about caring for Harrisii……
Care Summary
Water
Mist 5 – 7 times per week or
Soak once weekly for 30 mins – 2 hrs. If the leaf tips start to brown or the leaves fold inward, it needs watering more often.
Maximum soak of 4 hours only when necessary.
If water gets caught in the base it will cause rot.
Always dry upside down.
Size
When grown indoors, they average 8 inches wide before flowering.
Light
Harrisii thrives in bright, indirect light and will not blush purple in low light.
Place them in or near a window.
South and east-facing windows get the best light.
Soil
No soil.
Soil will kill most air plants.
Humidity
The ideal humidity is 60 – 80%.
Harrisii can thrive in lower humidity but may need more frequent watering and/or longer soaks.
Fertilizer
Fertilize regularly during the growing season.
Use an air plant-specific fertilizer or dilute orchid fertilizer.
The ideal ratio for Tillandsia is 16-9-25
Propagation
Pups / Offsets
Seeds
How to Water Air Plants
Common Problems with Tillandsia Harrisii
While Tillandsia harrisii is generally a resilient plant, it can encounter a few common problems. Understanding these issues and their solutions can help ensure the health and vitality of your Harris’s air plant.
Overwatering: Excessive moisture can lead to rot and other fungal diseases. To avoid this, make sure the plant has proper drainage and allow it to dry completely between waterings. Adjust your watering frequency based on the humidity levels in your environment.
Insufficient air circulation: Lack of airflow can result in stagnant moisture and increase the risk of fungal or bacterial infections. Ensure that the plant has adequate air circulation by placing it in a well-ventilated area, or use a fan to promote air movement.
Insufficient light: Insufficient light can cause Tillandsia harrisii to become pale, elongated, or lose its vibrant coloring. Place the plant in a location with bright, indirect light, such as near a window or under fluorescent lights.
Mineral buildup: Using tap water or water with high mineral content can lead to mineral deposits accumulating on the plant’s leaves, blocking its ability to absorb nutrients and water. To prevent this, use filtered or distilled water for misting and soaking.
Pests: While Tillandsia harrisii is generally resistant to pests, it can occasionally be affected by spider mites or mealybugs. Regularly inspect the plant for any signs of infestation, such as webbing or cottony clusters, and treat the affected areas with an appropriate insecticidal soap or neem oil solution.
By addressing these common problems promptly and providing the necessary care, you can help keep your Tillandsia harrisii healthy and thriving.
Harrisii Clump or Specimen
Get your very own Harrisii here.
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