Species in Tillandsia

Known as Spanish moss, with the widest distribution of any bromeliad, ranging from the southeastern United States to Argentina. Forms long, hanging festoons of slender, grayish-green stems up to 6 meters or more, draping from tree branches. Despite its common name, it is neither Spanish nor a moss, but a true flowering bromeliad. An epiphyte that absorbs all moisture and nutrients through its silvery trichome-covered leaves. Provides habitat for wildlife including birds, bats, and specialized spiders. Historically used for mattress stuffing, insulation, and crafts.

Widely distributed from Georgia and Florida (USA) through the West Indies, Mexico, and northern Central America to Venezuela, this species grows as an epiphyte across a broad range of environments, from temperate humid to warm humid, subhumid, and even arid areas, at elevations of 0-1350 m. It occurs in coastal scrub, dry and wet rainforest, montane cloud forest, holm-oak woodland, and wetlands.