A large part of the natural beauty of the South is the silver garland that hangs from our live oak trees. Spanish moss-draped oaks are the consummate image of the South Carolina Lowcountry, and the rest of the Southeast coastal areas, and are present just about everywhere you turn.
An image of beautiful Spanish moss hanging from majestic trees instantly reminds us of sultry summer days in the South. It’s a symbol of nature at its most relaxed.
But how much do you really know about Spanish moss?
Spanish moss isn’t Spanish, and it’s not moss
Spanish moss is part of the bromeliad family which places it in the same plant family as pineapples and succulent house plants. Spanish moss is actually native to Mexico, Central America, South America, the United States and the Caribbean where it can grow in a tropical environment. Here in the U.S. Spanish moss grows from Texas to Virginia generally staying in the moister areas of the south.
If it’s not Spanish and it’s not moss, how did it get its name?
Spanish moss was given its name by French explorers. Native Americans told them the plant was called Itla-okla, which meant “tree hair.” The French were reminded of the Spanish conquistadors’ long beards, so they called it Barbe Espagnol, or “Spanish Beard.” The Spaniards got back at them by calling the plant Cabello Francés, or “French Hair.” The French name won out, and as time went by Spanish Beard changed to Spanish moss. source