One of the most whimsical, romantic, and classic Charleston backdrops is Spanish moss. But, what is it?

How’d it get its name?

Surprisingly, this Instagrammable plant is neither Spanish nor moss. It's an epiphytic, which is defined as a plant that roots onto surfaces — like tree bark or rock.

As for its name, many believe it originated from the French in the Louisiana area, who thought the plant resembled the beards of Spanish explorers and dubbed it "Spanish beard."

Plant facts

Spanish moss is an air plant and prefers to cling to trees — both of which are plentiful in the Lowcountry. Lucky for our beautiful trees, the moss causes no damage.

Despite its name, this plant is a part of the bromeliad family and not actually moss.

Explore Hunting Island, where you’re sure to see Spanish moss draped around the park. | Photo provided by Visit Beaufort

How it's used

Houma, Natchez, Koasati, and the Seminole tribes have used and still use Spanish moss in a variety of ways:

Mixed into pottery + used for bedding, floor mats, horse blankets, and rope
Mixed into clay that was used to plaster the insides of houses
Soaked in water and stuffed into canoes to keep them from drying out and splitting
Boiled to make tea for chills and fever
Used as livestock feed
Nesting material for birds

Spanish moss is also used in flower arrangements and decorations.

See it for yourself

If you’re looking to spot some Spanish moss, just look up. This plant hangs out on the trees in Charleston. Here are some of our favorite spots to check out this local beauty: