According to one source, it was noted by Francis Moore, a Federal colonist, in 1736 that the Native Americans used dried moss for wadding in black powder muskets and as tinder for starting fires. But we’ll dispel that last part in a bit. Spanish moss has long been appreciated, used, and even feared, by some. Many other birds use the moss in their nest construction. In truth, it provides cover for insects and small animals, including a warbler, the Northern Parula which nests within the long hanging “beards” of Spanish moss. Tupelo, mangrove, wildflower and more: Discovering that sweet reward of regional honeyĪnd contrary to what a lot of people believe, Spanish moss does not receive its nutrients from the tree itself, and in truth Spanish moss does not kill trees. More gardening tips: Upgrade your outdoor oasis with these cool plants for hot gardens Of course, it does not resemble what most of us think of as a bromeliad, but in truth it is in the same taxonomic family. Technically Spanish moss is a bromeliad, a relative of pineapples. Spanish moss can be found throughout this state and much of the southeast. In many trees, the water runoff from their leaves and branches is actually rich in minerals and provides more nutrients to the Spanish moss living within them. It receives its nutrients and moisture through the air and with sunshine. That is, it is a plant that grows on other plants, but it is not a parasite. Iconic, historic, mysterious, romantic even, and often misunderstood, Spanish moss really is not a moss at all.
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