Description

Botanical Name: Tillandsia usneoides
Common Names: Spanish Moss, Old Man’s Beard, Tree Hair
Family: Bromeliaceae
Type: Epiphytic air plant (non-parasitic)

🌱 General Overview

Tillandsia usneoides is a unique, hanging air plant famous for its long, silvery-gray, thread-like strands. Despite its common name, it is neither a moss nor Spanish—it’s a true bromeliad. It naturally drapes over tree branches, creating a soft, flowing curtain effect.

🌿 Growth Habit & Appearance

• Forms long, cascading chains that can grow several meters in length

• Leaves are thin, curly, and covered with tiny trichomes, giving a silvery look

• No true roots—uses small holdfasts only to anchor itself

• Absorbs moisture and nutrients directly from air, rain, and dust

🌸 Flowers

• Small, pale green to yellowish flowers

• Mild, pleasant fragrance

• Blooms are short-lived but charming and delicate

🌞 Light Requirements

• Bright, filtered light is ideal

• Tolerates partial shade

• Avoid harsh, direct midday sun (can dry or burn the plant)

💧 Water & Humidity

• Loves high humidity (60–90%)

• Mist or soak 2–3 times per week in warm climates

• In dry areas, daily misting is beneficial

• Must dry fully within a few hours to prevent rot

🌡 Temperature

• Ideal range: 15–32°C

• Can tolerate short drops near 5°C if dry

• Thrives in warm, tropical to subtropical climates

🌬 Air Circulation

• Excellent airflow is essential

• Stagnant air + moisture can cause decay

🌿 Mounting & Display

• Hang freely on tree branches, wires, driftwood, or hooks

• Do not plant in soil

• Looks stunning in hanging baskets or outdoor gardens

🌱 Growth & Propagation

• Grows steadily in good humidity and light

• Propagated easily by division—simply separate strands

• No need for fertilizers, but very diluted orchid or bromeliad feed can be used occasionally

🌎 Natural Habitat

• Native to Southern USA, Mexico, Central & South America

• Commonly found on oak, cypress, and pine trees

• Provides shelter for birds and beneficial insects

✨ Special Features

• Non-parasitic and eco-friendly

• Excellent decorative and landscape plant

• Symbol of southern landscapes and natural elegance