Why will Spanish moss only grow in trees and other plants if "they only use them for support?"

fosse4

>http://www.co.beaufort.sc.us/bftlib/spanish.htm should answer your query [ ] Aug 31 03, 1:59 PM

McGruff

Spanish moss, also called Florida moss, long moss, or graybeard, is not a true moss. It is an epiphytic plant, which grows on another plant, but does not rely on the host plant for nutrients; epiphytes make their own food. They are sometimes referred to as air plants because most have aerial roots; however, Spanish moss does not have any roots. It uses its long, thin, scaly stems to wrap around the host tree and hang down from the branches. The leaves are covered with cup-like, permeable scales that 'catch' moisture and nutrients from the air and from pockets on the surface of the host. This water-trapping ability allows Spanish moss to withstand long dry periods. In extreme dry spells, the plant becomes dormant until moisture returns. http://www.sfrc.ufl.edu/4h/Spanish_moss/spanmoss.htm Spanish moss will grow only on a tree. It will not grow on vines, wooden fences, fence posts, wire fences, telephone poles, buildings or any other place except a tree. It will not thrive or grow on trees under which there is a cabin or a residence from which the smoke of a fireplace or a stove arises, nor will it grow on trees except in the area indicated in this book. http://www.communityonline.com/local/culture/spanishmoss/spanishmoss4.htm http://home.att.net/~SpanishMoss/mosspage.html http://www.hastingsreserve.org/OakStory/LaceLichen2.html Sep 01 03, 2:14 AM