Spanish Moss
The plant that lives on thin air. No soil, no pot, no green thumb required.
Spanish Moss Care Guide
Tillandsia usneoides does not need soil, does not need a pot, and grows hanging from almost anything you give it. Commonly known as Spanish Moss, it forms long, trailing curtains of fine, silvery-green stems that drape naturally over branches, hooks, or display frames. It is an epiphytic air plant: it has no root system and absorbs all its moisture and nutrients directly through its leaves. Hang it from a curtain rail, loop it over driftwood, or drape it across a shelf. Few plants create atmosphere as effortlessly. Native across a wide range from the southern United States through Central America to Argentina, Tillandsia usneoides grows draped over tree branches in warm, humid environments.
Temperature
10–27°C suits most species. Keep them away from cold draughts and radiators. Normal household humidity is fine too.
Light
Bright, indirect light is best. Air plants do well near a window, but avoid prolonged direct sun, which will dry them out. A dark corner will slowly starve them.
Water
Soak the whole plant in room-temperature water for 15 to 20 minutes once a week. Shake off the excess afterwards and allow it to dry fully within a few hours. If the centre stays wet, it will rot. Air flow is essential so after watering, make sure the air plants are completely dry.
One plant, a hundred looks
It weighs almost nothing and grows on almost anything — which makes it the easiest style upgrade in the house.
We're Gold Medal winners
We're proud to be three-time RHS Chelsea Gold Medal winners! Our latest achievement in 2026 celebrated the vital role of orchid conservation, highlighting the beauty, diversity and importance of protecting these incredible plants.
★★★★★
4.9 from 33 reviews
"Arrived in perfect condition and honestly bigger than I expected. It's draped over my bathroom mirror and everyone asks about it."
"I kill everything. This is the one plant I haven't killed. Two sprays a week and it's actually grown."
"Bought it because it's safe for my cats. It hangs where they can't reach anyway, but the peace of mind sold me."
Commonly Asked Questions about Spanish Moss
How big is it when it arrives?
Each strand arrives as a generous 30–40 cm drape. It keeps growing longer and fuller from day one.
Is it really safe for pets?
Yes. Tillandsia usneoides is non-toxic to cats and dogs. It usually hangs out of reach anyway, but nothing bad happens if a curious paw gets involved.
Does this plant need soil?
No. It's an air plant with no root system at all. It absorbs water and nutrients straight through its leaves, so it just hangs wherever you put it.
What if my plant arrives damaged?
Every order carries our 7-day live arrival guarantee. If it turns up looking unhappy, send us a photo and we replace it free — no return, no quibble.
How do I attach it to things?
It comes with a hook! Its own weight holds it in place on rails, hooks, branches and frames. For vertical surfaces, a small brass hook does the job in seconds.
