Bulbous Airplant (Tillandsia bulbosa) is a striking epiphytic bromeliad with a swollen, bulb-like base and stiff, tubular leaves. It thrives in bright, indirect light and
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Bright, indirect light
75% intensity
Prefers dappled sunlight or bright, filtered light. Avoid direct sun which can scorch leaves.
Allow to dry between waterings
50% intensity
Thoroughly soak once a week in growing season, much less in dormancy. Good airflow is crucial.
Does not require soil (epiphytic)
50% intensity
Average room temperatures
50% intensity
Thrives between 18-24°C. Protect from frost and sudden temperature fluctuations.
Greenhouse
50% intensity
Light feeding during growth
25% intensity
Use a diluted bromeliad or airplant fertilizer monthly during spring and summer. Avoid in winter.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water thoroughly once a week during warmer months, allowing the plant to dry out completely between waterings. Reduce watering significantly in cooler, dormant periods, perhaps only once every 2-3 weeks.
Ensure good air circulation after watering to prevent rot.
Prune only to remove dead or browning leaf tips using clean, sharp scissors. Remove spent flower stalks after blooming to encourage new growth and prevent the plant from expending unnecessary energy.
Avoid cutting healthy green tissue.
Propagate by offsets (pups) that form at the base of the parent plant. Once an offset is about one-third the size of the mother plant, gently twist or cut it away.
Allow the cut end to callus for a few days before mounting or placing it in an appropriate medium.
Tillandsia bulbosa is an epiphyte and does not require traditional potting. It grows mounted on wood, cork, or other substrates, or can be left free-hanging.
If an offset is removed, it can be mounted with a specialized airplant glue or wire.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Bulbous Airplant (Tillandsia bulbosa)
Where Bulbous Airplant (Tillandsia bulbosa) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Poales |
| Family | Bromeliaceae |
| Genus | Tillandsia |
| Species | Tillandsia bulbosa |
Similar in genus Tillandsia
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
