What is the common name for Tillandsia Usneoides?
Tillandsia usneoides, commonly called Spanish moss, is an epiphytic, fibrous and rootless perennial (bromelliad family) that typically wraps around and droops from branches or slabs of bark of host trees. It is noted for having stringy gray stems (1/32 in diameter) and narrow linear fuzzy gray leaves (to 2-3 long). Spanish moss lives on rain and fog, sunlight, and dust and dirt in the air. Its long tendrils are covered with tiny gray scales that trap and store water. After rain or dense fog, the plant looks greener. As it uses the water, it begins to look gray.An antibacterial compound has been isolated from Spanish Moss has shown moderate effectiveness against Staphylococcus sp. Other medicinal uses of Spanish Moss include treating rheumatism, diabetes, chills and fevers, and hemorrhoids.Does it purify the air? Yes! Spanish moss can be grown as an air purifying plant but care must be taken as spanish moss is very sensitive to poor air quality. In areas of the house such as a kitchen the vapor of cooking can negatively affect spanish mosses leaves causing damage to the plant.Spanish moss is a popular choice for many different uses, including floral arrangements, wreaths, and terrariums. It is also commonly used in craft projects and for decoration. Moss Acres’ Spanish moss is of the highest quality and is sure to add a touch of natural beauty to any project or decor.Spanish moss used to be harvested for stuffing material in automobile seats, furniture, mattresses, and even insulation in homes. Today it is sometimes used for stuffing or packing material, but it is more widely used for floral arrangements and mulch.
What are the benefits of Tillandsia Usneoides?
Ecological Benefits Air Quality: As an air plant, it can play a role in air purification. It absorbs moisture and nutrients from the air, which can include dust and pollutants, thereby contributing to cleaner air in its vicinity. Moss and Air Quality Mosses are powerful natural air purifiers. Their ability to capture airborne particles, pollutants, and carbon dioxide makes it an effective environmental health tool.
Is Tillandsia poisonous to humans?
Toxicity: Air plants are non-toxic to humans and pets, making them safe to include in household and office settings. Good for your Health Unlike any other houseplants, air plants have small hairs on their leaves called Trichomes. And these Trichomes are used to absorb water and as well as capture harmful chemicals and toxins from the air like formaldehyde and benzene. Plus, they also photosynthesize at night as most plants do.