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Tillandsia usneoides, commonly known as Spanish Moss, is a native epiphytic bromeliad that hangs in long, silvery-gray strands from tree branches. Despite its name, it is neither a true moss nor native to Spain.
Growth Form
Epiphytic (grows on trees, not parasitic)
Forms long, draping curtains
Can hang several feet in length
No true roots for soil absorption
It attaches lightly to tree bark and absorbs nutrients from the air.
Stems
Thin, thread-like stems
Covered in tiny overlapping leaves
Leaves
Gray to silvery-green in color
Surface coated with trichomes (tiny scales)
The trichomes allow the plant to absorb moisture directly from rain, dew, and humidity.
Flowers
Small and pale green
Three petals
Lightly fragrant
Fruit
Small capsule
Releases seeds with silky hairs
Wind-dispersed
Habitat
Tillandsia usneoides grow on shrubs and trees in Dry Broadleaf Evergreen Formation- Forests and Shrublands (coppice and scrublands) near the opening of caves and areas surrounding Fresh Water areas.
Distribution
Tillandsia usneoides occurs throughout the island groups within the Lucayan Archipelago, the southern United States, the entire Caribbean region, and Mexico south to northern South America.
Ecological Importance
Offers shelter for insects
Adds vertical structure to forest canopy
Indicator of relatively undisturbed habitats
Cultural Notes
Spanish Moss is not a parasite, it is a native air plant living independently above the forest floor.
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