Are Air Plants the New Succulents?

Over the past decade, succulents have taken the interior design world by storm, becoming a beloved choice for both novice and seasoned plant enthusiasts. Their low-maintenance nature and striking aesthetic made them a go-to option for those looking to add a touch of greenery to their homes.


But as trends evolve, a new contender is emerging on the plant scene— air plants. So, are air plants the new succulents? Let’s dive into what makes these unique plants a potential successor to the succulent craze.

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What Are Air Plants?

Air plants, also known as Tillandsia, belong to the bromeliad family and are native to the forests, mountains, and deserts of Central and South America.

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Unlike traditional plants, air plants don’t require soil to grow. They absorb moisture and nutrients through their leaves, making them incredibly versatile and easy to care for.

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Air plants have a distinct appearance, with their spiky, often curly leaves, and they come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors. This makes them an attractive option for those looking to diversify their indoor plant collection.

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Why Air Plants Are Gaining Popularity

1. Low Maintenance:

Much like succulents, air plants are low-maintenance, making them ideal for busy individuals or those new to plant care. They only need to be misted or soaked in water about once a week, depending on the humidity levels in your home. This ease of care is one of the key reasons air plants are becoming popular.

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Cute Farms Tillandsia Air Plant Fertilizer | Gentle Weekly Use

2. Versatility:

Air plants don’t need soil, which means they can be placed in a wide variety of settings. Whether you want to display them in a glass terrarium, mount them on a piece of driftwood, or hang them from the ceiling, the possibilities are endless. Their unique ability to thrive without soil makes them a great choice for creative and unconventional displays.

Jetec 12 Pcs Air Plants Holder

3. Aesthetic Appeal:

With their intricate shapes and delicate leaves, air plants offer a different kind of beauty compared to the more robust and fleshy succulents. They bring a light, airy feel to a space, making them perfect for minimalist and modern interiors.


Plus, they come in a range of colors from silvery greens to vibrant pinks and purples, allowing for more color variety in your indoor garden. I mean, take a look at these:

Colored Capitata Air Plant, Tillandsia Air Plant

Ionantha Guatemala Tillandsia Air Plant

Thin Air Plant, Guatemala Tillandsia Live Airplant

4. Space-Saving:

Air plants are typically small, making them ideal for people with limited space. You can place them on a shelf, in a small corner, or even hang them in tiny pots or glass globes. Their compact size and ability to be displayed in creative ways make them perfect for apartment dwellers or those looking to add greenery without taking up too much space.

5. Pet-Friendly:

Unlike some succulents, which can be toxic to pets, most air plants are non-toxic and safe for animals. This makes them a safer option for pet owners who want to enjoy indoor plants without worrying about their furry friends.

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Are Air Plants the New Succulents?

While it’s hard to say if air plants will completely replace succulents in popularity, they certainly offer a fresh alternative for those looking to expand their plant collections or try something new. Their low-maintenance nature, versatility, and unique aesthetic make them an appealing option for anyone interested in indoor gardening.


Air plants bring a different energy to a space—one that’s light, airy, and a bit whimsical. Whether you’re a seasoned plant parent or a beginner looking to dip your toes into plant care, air plants are definitely worth considering. As trends shift and evolve, air plants might just be the next big thing in the world of indoor greenery.


So, if you’re ready to try something new and embrace a fresh trend, why not give air plants a try? They might just become your new favorite plant.

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  • i e had air-plants and they always die, and so do my succulents. I have no luck with either.
    • Che102928165 Che102928165 3 days ago
      These plants are not easy to care for! Me too! I follow the directions about how to care for these air plants and they seem to get rot very quickly or dry out way too much in between watering them. I even tried putting them in my bathroom. If you buy them thru the mail, make sure you don't order them during the colder months for delivery. These plants will arrive dead and dried out. I have better luck with orchids.
  • Joan Christensen Joan Christensen 3 days ago
    Do they need a lot of light or less?
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