Second family in number of epiphytes. Alternate parallel-veined leaves that are lanceolate, acuminate to lorate forming a rosette. Many times basally trough-like. Flowers are perfect and usually radially symmetrical. Perianth in 2 whorls of three.
Calyx displays some petaloid qualities.
Corolla is obvious by bright coloration. Six stamens, either fused to themselves or the petals. Placentation axile and multiovular. Fruit a berry or capsule. Tillandsia Tillandsias can be found in similar places as other Bromeliads with a high occurrence of certain species along the eastern coast of the Gulf of Mexico.