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A touch of the exotic

Tillandsia is a boon to gardeners, as it does not even need soil to grow

STRANDS OF SILVER Spanish Moss

Tillandsia or Spanish Moss is a fascinating plant, a true epiphyte, native to the Americas, hanging in tangled bunches from almost every tree there.

A boon to any gardener, as it does not even need any soil to grow in, Spanish Moss adds a touch of the exotic to a garden, and in a most simple way.

Looking like bunches of tangled, silvery wire, these plants only need to be draped or casually hung over any tree branch. Frequent misting is essential where rainfall is minimal; a semi-shady position is best suited. The clump will increase in size and the strands in length. Propagation is easy, just a few strands from the parent plant need to be detached and hung separately.

Feeding is not required, but water is the life-force for this lovely specimen. This tillandsia (see picture) is one of the graceful forms of the species.

RUPA GOPAL

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