Common name

Spanish moss, Florida moss, long moss, or graybeard

Origin

Central and South America and the southeastern United States but it will grow wherever the climate is warm and humid such as South Africa, Hawaii and Australia

Varieties

Colors

A mass of grey green with tiny greenish blue flowers and brown seedpods. The moss can also be dyed.

Vase life

Spanish moss can be arranged without a water source as it absorbs moisture from the air. It will even withstand long periods of absolutely no water when the plant becomes dormant.

Scent

Uses

Roll in a ball and use as a water retaining mechanic. It is also great to use as a natural stuffing to add bulk or cushion delicate objects. Can be used as mulch in planted designs or draped as insulation or a natural screen or even as fibres.

Conditioning

Wearing gloves dunk the moss under water and lightly wash it with a little bit of dishwashing soap to remove all bugs. Rinse well and spread out the moss to dry in full sun. Or seal the moss in an airtight container (or bag) for a week in a cool shaded area. This should also draw out any bugs hiding in the moss. Take care not to sweat or heat the moss. Rinse out and your moss is ready to work with. Do not microwave. Use dry or hydrate the moss for a few weeks before using in an arrangement