Species Spanish moss

Spanish moss

Tillandsia usneoides

Spanish moss (Tillandsia usneoides) is a species of flowering plant that grows in tropical and subtropical climates around the world. It lives mostly as an epiphyte on trees, but can also be found on shrubs, stone walls, and other structures. The plant itself has long, thin, gray tendrils that look like moss. Although it has no traditional roots, it absorbs nutrients and moisture from the air. It is also commonly used for craft projects, decorations,and floral displays.

Cycle:

Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Air Layering Propagation,Division,Offsets,Seed Propagation,Cutting

Hardiness Zone:

8 - 11

Flowers:

Pale blue or green Flowers

Sun:

Full sun,part shade

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

watering

Spanish moss (Tillandsia usneoides) prefers light to medium, indirect sunlight and warm temperatures. A bright room or shaded spot outdoors is ideal. This plant does not require frequent watering as it is accustomed to growing in humid environments. Once every 2 weeks should be adequate. When you do water, soak the moss in lukewarm water for a few hours and then gently squeeze out the excess. During the winter months, reduce the watering frequency to once per month.

sunlight

Spanish moss (Tillandsia usneoides) does best in partial shade or indirect bright light. This means that it should receive up to 3 hours of direct sunlight a day. It is important not to place the plant in direct sunlight for more than 3 hours, as this can cause the leaves to become burned or dried out. It is best to place the plant in an area that receives bright but indirect light throughout the majority of the day in order to give it the best chance of thriving.

pruning

Spanish moss should be pruned in the early spring, preferably around March. Pruning should be done once a year, or as needed. When pruning, only remove the dead, brown foliage. If you cut away at the green foliage, it won't grow back. Prune lightly, removing no more than about 1-third of the top layer of moss at a time. If possible, use hand pruners to avoid ripping the moss and damaging the plant.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Spanish moss typically begins flowering in late spring or early summer, usually between April and June.

Starts Flowering

Spanish moss typically begins flowering in late spring or early summer, usually between April and June.

Hardiness Map