How to care for Tillandsia riccia

How to care for Curly Tillandsia

Our tips for keeping it healthy and strong

Curly Tillandsia, also known as "Shirley Temple," is an epiphytic plant native to Mexico and Central America. At our company, this air plant is appreciated for its ability to live without soil, making it a fascinating and versatile choice for anyone looking to add a touch of greenery to their home without a traditional pot of soil.

The right spot

Curly Tillandsia loves bright, indirect light. It is important to place it somewhere it will get plenty of light, but without direct exposure to sunlight, which could damage it. If you notice the leaves turning brown, this could be a sign of too much sun, so move it to an area with more diffused light.

When and how to water it

Curly Tillandsia needs regular misting to maintain the right hydration level. In summer, we recommend misting it every 7 days, while every 14 days is enough in winter. Make sure the leaves are dry within 4 hours of watering to prevent rot.

Temperature and humidity

This plant thrives in an environment with temperatures between 15 and 30 degrees Celsius, but can tolerate up to 35 degrees. Humidity should be high, ideally between 50% and 70%. Good air circulation is essential to prevent rot.

The right fertilizer

During spring and summer, you can fertilize your Curly Tillandsia every 30 days with a liquid fertilizer specifically formulated for epiphytes. This will help the plant maintain its vigor and grow healthily.

The pot and soil

As an air plant, the curly Tillandsia doesn't need soil. You can place it on decorative supports that allow good air circulation around the plant.

Lives without soil

Like all air plants, the curly Tillandsia lives without soil. It requires regular misting and good air circulation to prevent rot. You can place it on decorative supports that allow it to receive plenty of indirect light.

How to propagate it

The curly Tillandsia is propagated by dividing offsets. When the offsets reach half the size of the mother plant, they can be carefully separated to grow into new plants. This requires a little care, but it's a rewarding way to expand your collection.

Our final tip

The curly Tillandsia is a plant that brings an exotic, innovative touch to your space. With the right care and attention, it will reward you with its unique beauty and ability to adapt to different environments. Don't forget to ensure good air circulation and enjoy watching it grow!

— Giulia's Gardens

Verified care information

This data comes directly from the verified botanical profile used to generate the guide.

Light

medium-high · Bright indirect light

Watering

Every 7 days in summer · every 14 days in winter · Misting · Leaves must dry within 4 hours

Temperature

15 °C ideal minimum · 30 °C ideal maximum · 10 °C minimum tolerated · 35 °C maximum tolerated

Humidity

high · 50% minimum · 70% maximum

Fertilizing

Liquid fertilizer for epiphytes · spring-summer · every 30 days

Propagation

Division of offsets · Moderate · Offsets can be separated when they reach half the size of the mother plant.