Prepare to be amazed by the wonder of Tillandsia plants, also known as air plants! These incredible creatures of nature defy the rules of the plant world by thriving without roots. While most plants depend on soil for nutrients and water, air plants take it to the next level, absorbing everything they need directly from the very air we breathe! With specialized cells on their leaves, called Trichomes, they capture moisture and nutrients from the environment around them, making them perfect for spaces with little soil or room to spare.
How do they work?
Trichomes look like little hairs but in reality, they are tiny cups that take in water. Trichomes are made up of alot of little cells, some living and some dead. When water comes in contact with the dead cells of a trichome, it swells up like a sponge and is absorbed into the living cells, which then put the water to use. Nutrients trapped in the water are thereby also absorbed into the leaves, leaving little need therefore, for roots.
Nature truly is full of surprises—check out the video below to see how these mind-blowing plants work their magic!