Iconic Spanish Moss (Tillandsia usneoides)

Spanish Moss has long been a symbol of southern character and lore. This epiphyte is not a moss and it does not harm the trees on which it hangs, rather it increases biodiversity by providing nesting material for numerous species.

A close-up of Spanish Moss, taken with our micro-camera, reveals how this plant is able to cling to the smallest of spaces in trees.

Spanish Moss is believed to be an indicator of air quality as it captures air pollutants and it cannot grow in certain types of contaminated environments. Did you know Spanish Moss is used for homeopathic medicine, was once used as car seat stuffing by Henry Ford, and it is a relative of the pineapple? Amazing!