The terms “extra large air plants” refer to those Tillandsia specimens that have achieved significant size relative to standard cultivars. These plants, belonging to the Bromeliad family, are characterized by their epiphytic nature, obtaining nutrients and moisture from the air. An example would be a mature Tillandsia xerographica reaching a diameter exceeding 12 inches.
Cultivating substantial specimens offers various aesthetic and functional benefits. Their size makes them striking focal points in interior design, adding a unique natural element to spaces. Furthermore, larger plants often indicate maturity and can, in some cases, produce more frequent or elaborate blooms. Historically, air plants have been collected and admired for their unusual growth habits and ornamental value. Their current popularity has led to increased interest in propagating and nurturing larger, more impressive individuals.