tillandsia

noun

til·​land·​sia tə-ˈlan(d)-zē-ə How to pronounce tillandsia (audio)
: any of a large genus (Tillandsia) of chiefly epiphytic plants of the pineapple family native to tropical and subtropical America

Examples of tillandsia in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
This San Francisco favorite has a multitude of terrariums and tillandsias to satisfy any desire … to fill your home and patio with air plants. Joan Morris, The Mercury News, 25 July 2019 Although there are a few tillandsias that can live in full sun, most require dappled shade. Joan Morris, The Mercury News, 25 July 2019 Spray, don’t soak Many people suggest soaking tillandsias, but the recommendations range anywhere from 30 minutes twice a week to 3 hours every month. Joan Morris, The Mercury News, 25 July 2019 Dig Gardens This Santa Cruz standout has a wide assortment of tillandsias — air plants — in hanging planters, wall decor and terrariums. Joan Morris, The Mercury News, 25 July 2019 Rosen first became enamored with tillandsias during family vacations to Hawaii. Emily Young, latimes.com, 8 June 2019 Picture the exotic-looking and increasingly popular tillandsia. Emily Young, latimes.com, 8 June 2019 As for water, tillandsias take it in through scales on their leaves — trichomes, actually. Jeff Lowenfels, Anchorage Daily News, 25 Jan. 2018 Look for tillandsias at your local nursery, or visit tropiflora.com. Southern Living, 3 Dec. 2012

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from Elias Tillands †1693 Finnish botanist

First Known Use

1759, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of tillandsia was in 1759

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Cite this Entry

“Tillandsia.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/tillandsia. Accessed 27 Nov. 2024.

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