Spanish Moss
Spanish moss is a trademark plant of the Florida environment. If you live in or visited the southern regions of the United States, chances are you have seen the tangled-looking, drooping, grey “hair” hanging from trees, fences, and landscape throughout Florida.
Locally known as “Spanish Moss”, contrary to popular belief, this plant is not moss. In fact, Spanish Moss is part of the bromeliad family which places it in the same plant family as pineapples and succulent house plants.
It is actually an epiphyte that clings to itself as it dangles from tree limbs, getting nutrients from the air and debris that collects on the plant. Spanish moss has permeable scales that collect moisture and nutrients.
Spanish moss favors warm climates with high humidity. In the United States, Spanish moss ranges from eastern Virginia to the south and west to Texas. Humidity and rain are essential for the plant to be able to grow.
Spanish moss is important to wildlife, it shelters a host of animals. Spanish moss is also a significant component of the nests of several species of birds, including the parula warbler and the Baltimore oriole.. Bats also use Spanish moss in their nests. Small lizards, snakes, and frogs will use the moss for shelter and protection.
Spanish moss is indeed an oddity of the plant world. It has aesthetic qualities and adds to the beauty of the trees. So be a good host and let your Spanish moss dangle in your landscape.
