What year did the Spanish introduce Spanish moss to North America?
This week’s question was a trick, as Spanish moss is neither Spanish nor a moss. Spanish moss (Tillandsia usneoides) is a flowering epiphyte (a plant that grows on another plant, but is not parasitic) that is native to the Southeastern US and parts of Central and South America. It has practically no roots and absorbs water from the air, as well as rainfall. As a result, high humidity is required for survival. Spanish moss is a member of the Bromeliad family, which includes both epiphytes and terrestrial plants, such as pineapple. Read more about Spanish moss here.
This week’s question is from Justin Ballew, Extension Fruit and Vegetable Research Associate.
The South Carolina Grower 