Spanish Moss, plant

Spanish Moss plant, Tillandsia usneoides, is also known as Grey Beard and Old Man’s Beard. A decorative plant with silvery-grey leaves giving an “everglades” feel to any warm climate garden. Stems are thread-like trailing and hanging in tangled masses. Hang over fence or tree, there is no need to water. The leaves will thicken and lengthen and can be used for garden mulch or as stuffing in cushions. The moss is made into ointment to give relief to the discomfort of haemorrhoids. Spanish Moss plant is a native of South America and is adaptable to most protected, partially shaded positions. Drought and frost tender. An evergreen perennial plant, growing to a length of 0.3m.