The “Shirley Temple” air plant (Tillandsia ionantha) is a popular houseplant. It blushes vibrant pink or red, reminiscent of Shirley Temple’s rosy cheeks, especially when preparing to bloom. Native to Central and South America, this small plant thrives as an epiphyte, attaching to trees and rocks rather than growing in soil. As an air plant, it absorbs moisture and nutrients directly through its leaves.
Shirley Temple Air Plant Care
These plants flourish in bright, indirect sunlight, mimicking their natural habitat under a tree canopy. Place them near a south or north-facing window, a few feet away to prevent direct sun exposure. Harsh sunlight can scorch leaves and cause them to lose vibrant color.
Watering primarily involves soaking. Submerge your plant in room temperature water for 20 to 30 minutes every one to two weeks. After soaking, shake off excess water and allow the plant to dry completely within four hours to prevent rot. Misting two to three times a week can supplement hydration, but it does not replace a full soak. Use rainwater, spring water, or filtered tap water that has sat out for at least 24 hours to allow chlorine to dissipate; avoid distilled or softened water.
Good air circulation is essential, especially after watering. Adequate airflow allows the plant to dry, preventing fungal issues and rot at the base. Air plants thrive in consistent temperatures from 50 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit (10 to 32 degrees Celsius). Protect them from frost, as low temperatures can cause damage. Humidity between 50% and 70% is ideal, though they adapt to lower indoor humidity with proper watering.
Fertilizing is optional but can promote growth and blooming. Use a specialized air plant, bromeliad, or orchid fertilizer, diluted to one-quarter strength. Apply this solution once a month during spring and summer growing seasons. Avoid planting them in soil, as they are epiphytes. Instead, mount them on cork bark, driftwood, or shells, place them in open terrariums with good airflow, or set them on decorative objects.
Blooming and Offsets
The Shirley Temple air plant transforms when it approaches blooming. Its green foliage intensifies into vibrant red or pink, a process known as blushing. This coloration signals the plant is preparing to produce its small, tubular flowers, which typically emerge in shades of purple, sometimes with yellow or white stamens. Blooming usually occurs once in the plant’s lifetime, often from late winter to early spring, with flowers lasting several days to a few weeks.
After blooming, the mother plant produces “pups” or offsets, miniature versions emerging from its base. These can be separated once they reach one-third to one-half the size of the mother plant. To separate, twist the pup from the mother, or use a clean, sharp blade to cut it away as close to the mother as possible. Alternatively, allow pups to remain attached, forming a clump of interconnected plants.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
If your Shirley Temple air plant is not blushing pink or red, it often indicates insufficient light. Moving the plant to a brighter, indirect sunlight location can encourage this vibrant coloration. Browning leaf tips or a dull appearance typically signal dehydration or low humidity. Increase soaking frequency or incorporate misting to improve health.
A mushy base or signs of rot usually result from overwatering and inadequate air circulation. If this occurs, ensure the plant dries completely, shake off excess water, and improve airflow to prevent further decay. While air plants are generally pest-resistant, mealybugs or scale insects can occasionally appear. Dab affected areas with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to manage them.