November 30, 2014
Bromeliad's, also called Air plants can be found throughout florida growing in trees, not on the ground or in soil. There are over 500 species around the world but only 16 species that are native of Florida. This large plant sits in the beautiful Live Oak behind or rig. I have seen trees covered with air plants in some of the southern most points in FL and to my surprise, they do not harm the host tree.
Taking all their water and nutrients through the leaf system, none or very minimal amounts are absorbed by the root system. This root system is used as wire like anchors to hold onto trees, rocks etc. Since the root system is not important to the plant this can be removed without harm. The name, Air Plant seems to imply that the plant needs only the air to thrive but that is far from the truth. While it us humid in florida, this is not enough, the plants need water at least twice a week in the form of rain, mist or dew. They can go dormant during times without moisture but they need water to survive.
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