Spanish moss
- has no roots and grows on other plants.
Spanish moss is an epiphyte, which means it grows on another plant without taking nutrients from it. This allows it to reach sunlight without having to develop its own stem. Therefore, Spanish moss has no roots and instead absorbs water and nutrients through its leaves. The leaves are covered with tiny, shield-shaped hairs that allow the plant to take in dew, rain, and nutrients from the air.
When the plant blooms, it produces tiny, almost invisible light green flowers.
Facts:
- Greenhouse location: Mountain Forest House
- Danish name: Spaniolskæg
- Latin name: Tillandsia usneoides
- Family: Pineapple family / Bromeliaceae
- Natural habitat: The southern USA, Central America, and large parts of South America