but we're not sure. LOL
2007-06-05 12:57:38 · 6 answers · asked by catfrommiss_42 1 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Botany
An epiphyte is an organism that grows upon or attached to a living plant. The term most commonly refers to higher plants, but epiphytic bacteria, fungi (epiphytic fungi), algae, lichens, mosses, and ferns exist as well. The term epiphytic derives from the Greek epi- (meaning 'upon') and phyton (meaning 'plant'). Epiphytic plants are sometimes called "air plants" because they do not root in soil. However, there are many aquatic species of algae, including seaweeds, that are epiphytes on other aquatic plants (seaweeds or aquatic angiosperms).
2007-06-05 13:01:25 · answer #1 · answered by DanE 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It depends on what kind of plant is being spoken about. Their are some plants called air plants that are actually Tillandsias. These have thick stringy leaves that may curve about ( Kaput medusae) or look like the top of a pineapple. Another "plant" being sold as an air plant or an "air fern" is a very dark green color and is very light and feathery looking. It usually comes in a small plastic pot but can be glued to magnets. If it gets wet you will notice it turns black or brown and "wilts". This is not actually a plant, but a kind of sea creature. They live on the bottom of the ocean and are dredged up and dried out. Then they are spray painted green and sold as "plants". This is why when they get wet the color comes off. Actual Tillandsias will grow if put in a sunny window and kept misted with water. Eventually they may even flower. The "air fern" however, will not grow (and if it does, there is something very creepy going on)
2007-06-05 17:47:35 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Some sellers call Tillandsias air plants. They are a Bromiliad and they do grow. They should be watered at least once a week and if it's hot, more often. There's more infomation on Rainforest Floras website. Hope that helps.
2007-06-05 13:50:40 · answer #3 · answered by kim k 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Yup... in particular I've seen them occasionally sold in seashells turned into magnets. lol
2007-06-05 13:12:54 · answer #4 · answered by Indigo 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Yes they are real. I first saw them at Disney in Orlando
2007-06-05 13:11:20 · answer #5 · answered by Beau R 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
airplants really do exist. just spray them with a little water every week.
2007-06-05 13:05:38 · answer #6 · answered by polarisash 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋