Matuda's air plant Tillandsia matudae

Water

Air plants like Tillandsia matudae, commonly known as the Matuda's Air Plant, should be watered by soaking them in a bowl of water for about 20-30 minutes every one to two weeks. After soaking, shake off any excess water and allow them to dry upside down to prevent water accumulation at the base, which can lead to rot. In more arid climates or during hot seasons, increase the frequency to once a week, ensuring the plant fully dries within four hours after soaking. Always use room temperature water, and ensure the amount is sufficient to completely submerge the plant during its soaking period. Mistings between soakings can help maintain the plant's hydration, but avoid over-misting to prevent rot.

Light

Matuda's Air Plant thrives best in bright, indirect sunlight. Place the plant near a window where it can receive plenty of light but is shielded from the harsh rays of direct sunlight. East- or west-facing windows are ideal locations as they offer plenty of light without the intensity of midday sun. Avoid placing the plant in low-light areas, as inadequate light can impede its growth and vitality.

Temperature

Matuda's Air Plant prefers a temperature range between 50 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit, making it well-suited for indoor environments. It can survive minimum temperatures of around 50 degrees Fahrenheit and maximum temperatures up to 90 degrees, though sustained exposure to extremes can be harmful. The ideal temperature for promoting healthy growth is between 70 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit, which is common for most indoor settings.

Pruning

Pruning the Matuda's Air Plant is mainly for aesthetic purposes and to remove any brown or damaged leaves. Prune sparingly, using sharp scissors to avoid damaging healthy parts of the plant. The best time to prune is during the spring and summer when the plant is actively growing. Regular pruning is not necessary, but monitoring the plant's condition and removing unsightly or unhealthy leaves can encourage better air circulation and growth.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Tillandsia matudae, commonly known as the Sky Plant, does not require traditional soil, as it is an air plant. It absorbs moisture and nutrients through its leaves from the air. The ideal pH for the Sky Plant is not applicable since it does not grow in soil but should be mounted on wood or placed in a terrarium with indirect light.

Repotting

Tillandsia matudae, or Sky Plant, typically does not need repotting as it is an air plant. It should be mounted or placed in an environment that allows for air circulation, rather than in a potting medium. The Sky Plant does not grow in soil and therefore "repotting" in the traditional sense is not necessary.

Humidity & Misting

The Sky Plant prefers high humidity levels, ideally between 50% and 70%. As an epiphyte, it thrives in environments that provide moisture through the air, such as a bathroom with diffused light or a terrarium that maintains a humid atmosphere.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Mount on wood or place in a terrarium with bright, indirect sunlight.

• Outdoor

  Hang or mount on trees in shades with good air circulation.

• Hardiness zone

  9-11 USDA

Life cycle

Tillandsia matudae, also known as Matuda's air plant, begins its life cycle as a seed, often dispersed by wind. Upon landing on a suitable host, such as a tree branch or rock, the seed germinates and forms a small rosette of leaves. As it matures, the rosette grows larger and produces specialized structures called trichomes that absorb moisture and nutrients from the air. The air plant eventually reaches maturity and develops a colorful inflorescence, which attracts pollinators for sexual reproduction. After pollination, the plant produces seeds and may also produce offsets, known as "pups," which detach and grow into new plants. Finally, the parent plant typically dies after flowering and seed dispersal, completing its lifecycle.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Fall

• Tillandsia matudae, commonly known as air plant, is most frequently propagated through the division of offsets, also known as "pups." These pups are naturally produced by the mother plant after it flowers. To propagate with this method, wait until the pups have grown to at least one-third the size of the parent plant for a higher chance of survival. This could be anywhere from several months to over a year after the pup begins to form. When ready, gently remove the pup by pulling or twisting it from the base of the parent plant, ensuring that it has some roots attached if possible. Once separated, the pup can be placed in a new location where it should be provided with bright, indirect light and regular misting to encourage root development and growth.