11 Fascinating Epiphytic Plants That Grow on Trees

Have you ever noticed plants gracefully dangling from tree branches or nestled in tree crevices, seemingly growing with minimal soil? These unique organisms are called epiphytes. Unlike parasitic plants that sap the vitality of their hosts, epiphytes use trees solely for physical support, gathering moisture and nutrients from the air, rain, or organic debris. This ability allows them to thrive high above ground, displaying remarkable adaptability and beauty. In this article, we dive deep into eleven popular epiphytic plants you can find growing on trees, exploring their remarkable adaptations, appeal in landscaping, and tips for growing them in gardens or indoors.

Table of Contents

• Introduction to Epiphytic Plants
• Bromeliads
• Orchids
• Epiphytic Cacti
• Bird’s Nest Fern
• Staghorn Fern
• Tillandsia (Air Plants)
• Ant Plant
• Spanish Moss
• Rhipsalis
• Lipstick Plant
• Dischidia
• FAQs

What Are Epiphytic Plants?

Epiphytes are a diverse group of plants that grow on other plants, mainly trees, without directly harming their host. They extract nutrients and water from the surrounding environment—often from rain, mist, and decaying organic matter. This remarkable lifestyle lets them occupy ecological niches in forests where soil-based competition is fierce. Epiphytes can be found in rainforests, cloud forests, and sometimes in temperate woodlands, and many have found a place as easy-care houseplants appreciated for their unique forms and growing habits.

Common plant types that grow as epiphytes include:

• Bromeliads
• Orchids
• Cacti
• Ferns
• Various specialty houseplants (like air plants)

Bromeliads

Bromeliads are perhaps the most iconic epiphytes, instantly recognized by their rosettes of strappy leaves and vibrant inflorescences. They originate from tropical and subtropical forests in the Americas. Most bromeliads perch in tree canopies, catching rainwater in their central cups and absorbing nutrients through specialized trichomes on their leaves. Their bright flowers and dramatic foliage make them popular choices for indoor displays or tropical gardens.

Popular Bromeliad Genera:

• Aechmea: Showy inflorescences, spiky leaves.
• Neoregelia: Compact, colorful rosettes.
• Guzmania: Sleek, upright flower spikes.
• Vriesea: Sword-shaped inflorescences, patterned foliage.

Growing Tips:

• Provide bright, indirect light indoors or filtered sunlight outside.
• Keep central cups filled with fresh water and mist the leaves regularly.
• Ensure excellent air circulation to prevent rot.

Orchids

With their ornate, long-lasting flowers, orchids are the queens of the epiphyte world. A vast majority of orchid species, especially in tropical regions, are epiphytic. They use thick, spongy aerial roots to grip branches and absorb water from humid air. Orchids’ structural beauty and diversity make them prized by plant growers worldwide.

Popular Epiphytic Orchids:

• Phalaenopsis (Moth Orchid): Easiest for beginners, elegant arching stems.
• Dendrobium: Tall canes, abundant blooms in clusters.
• Cattleya: Fragrant, large, frilly flowers.
• Vanda: Bright colors, no pseudobulbs, requires high humidity.

Growing Tips:

• Grow in bark or sphagnum moss in shallow pots, baskets, or mounted on wood.
• Provide good air circulation and high humidity.
• Water thoroughly but allow drying between waterings.

Epiphytic Cacti

While cacti are often associated with arid deserts, several genera—including Rhipsalis and Epiphyllum—are epiphytic and live in the humid canopies of forests. Their trailing, sometimes flattened stems enable them to catch sunlight below the tree canopy, and they often produce spectacular flowers.

Noteworthy Epiphytic Cacti:

• Rhipsalis (Mistletoe Cactus): Long, thin, branching stems, tiny flowers.
• Epiphyllum (Orchid Cactus): Broad, strap-like stems, huge nocturnal flowers.
• Schlumbergera (Christmas Cactus): Segmented stems, colorful winter blooms, popular houseplant.

Growing Tips:

• Use well-draining, chunky orchid or cactus mix.
• Bright, indirect light and avoid excessive direct sun.
• Water when the potting mix is nearly dry; avoid prolonged drought.

Bird’s Nest Fern

The Bird’s Nest Fern (Asplenium nidus) is a classic epiphyte of rainforests, forming large rosettes with undivided, wavy-edged fronds. As an epiphyte, it often nestles in the crooks of tree limbs, using decomposing leaf litter as a nutrient source. In homes, it is popular for its tolerance of lower light and ease of care.

• Light: Moderate to low, indirect sunlight.
• Watering: Allow the top inch of soil to dry, avoid watering the central rosette.
• Humidity: Thrives in humidity but adapts to average room conditions.

Staghorn Fern

Staghorn Ferns (Platycerium spp.) stand out due to their unique, antler-like fertile fronds and shield-like basal fronds. In the wild, they’re found clinging to tree trunks in tropical environments. As a decorative houseplant, they’re frequently mounted on wooden plaques or hung in baskets to mimic their natural habitat.

• Water by soaking or misting the root ball every week or as needed.
• High humidity and indirect light suit these ferns best.
• Remove spent fronds to promote airflow and neat appearance.

Tillandsia (Air Plants)

Tillandsia—commonly called air plants—are perhaps the most famous modern epiphytes. They require no soil whatsoever, extracting everything they need from the air through specialized scales (trichomes) on their leaves. With hundreds of species and cultivars, they offer tremendous variety in form, size, and color, and are popular for creative displays and terrariums.

• Soak or mist weekly to keep hydrated, especially in dry indoor air.
• Provide bright, filtered light indoors.
• Ensure good air movement to prevent rot.

Ant Plant

Ant Plants (e.g., Myrmecophytes) are a unique group of epiphytes that have evolved mutualistic relationships with ants. Their swollen stems or roots form chambers that serve as ant homes, while ants guard the plant and provide nutrients through their waste.

• Best grown in terrariums or humid indoor environments.
• Provide consistently moist, rich, well-draining mix.
• High humidity and filtered light are ideal.

Spanish Moss

Spanish Moss (Tillandsia usneoides) is an air plant with a dramatic, draping appearance, commonly seen festooning trees in the southern United States. Despite its name, it is neither a moss nor Spanish, but a true Tillandsia. It forms long, silvery-grey chains that hang from branches and sways gently with the breeze.

• Soak or mist often, especially in dry climates.
• Thrives with bright, dappled light outdoors or indoors.
• Excellent for hanging baskets or as a natural decoration on trees.

Rhipsalis

Rhipsalis is a genus of epiphytic cacti found mainly in the tropical Americas and parts of Africa and Asia. Also called mistletoe cacti, these plants have long, slender, sometimes cylindrical stems and grow gracefully as cascades from the branches of their host trees. They are easy to cultivate indoors with proper care.

• Grow in a loose, well-draining epiphyte mix.
• Water moderately—let dry between waterings.
• Bright, indirect light is best.

Lipstick Plant

The Lipstick Plant (Aeschynanthus) gets its name from its vibrant red tubular flowers that emerge from dark calyces, resembling a tube of lipstick. Native to Southeast Asian forests, it grows as an epiphyte trailing from trees. It is cherished as a trailing houseplant for its ornamental blooms and glossy leaves.

• Use a loose, airy mix suitable for epiphytes.
• Bright, indirect sunlight and regular watering are key.
• Allow the top layer to dry out between waterings.

Dischidia

Dischidia species are lesser-known but equally fascinating epiphytes from Southeast Asia and Australia. Many have curious swollen leaves (as in Dischidia pectenoides, known as the ant plant), which serve as water storage and ant shelters. Their trailing or climbing habit makes them well-suited to hanging baskets and terrariums.

• Grow in high humidity, filtered light environments.
• Water moderately and plant in chunky orchid mix or sphagnum moss.
• Excellent choice for vivariums or high-humidity rooms.

Epiphyte Comparison Table

Epiphytes as Houseplants: Why Grow Them?

Epiphytes have surged in popularity thanks to their unique forms, low maintenance requirements, and adaptability to indoor conditions. Unlike typical houseplants, many epiphytes require less frequent watering and don’t need traditional soil, making them suitable for creative displays—on wood slabs, in hanging globes, or within terrariums. Their fascinating evolutionary adaptations and striking shapes add natural sophistication to any space, from modern apartments to tropical-themed gardens.

• Minimal soil or soilless mounting means less mess and more versatility.
• Great for small spaces and vertical gardening.
• Many species thrive in indoor humidity and indirect light.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Are epiphytic plants harmful to their host trees?

A: No. Most epiphytic plants use trees only for physical support and do not steal water or nutrients from their hosts. They coexist without harming the tree.

Q: Can I grow these plants without trees indoors?

A: Absolutely. Epiphytes can be grown on wood plaques, in hanging baskets, glass globes, or attached to wire frames—no trees needed!

Q: What’s the easiest epiphyte to start with?

A: Air plants (Tillandsia) are very beginner-friendly. They require no soil, need only bright light, and a regular misting or soaking to stay healthy.

Q: Do all orchids grow on trees?

A: No, while many orchids are epiphytic, some are terrestrial (growing in soil) or lithophytic (growing on rocks).

Q: How do I mount an epiphyte?

A: Use natural wood, cork, or tree bark as a base. Attach the plant gently with fishing line or wire, and keep the root area moist, especially during establishment.

Conclusion

Epiphytic plants—those that grow on trees—represent a remarkable adaptation in the plant kingdom, enabling them to thrive in high light, airborne environments with fierce competition on the ground. Whether you are a plant collector or a beginner seeking low-maintenance, dramatic greenery, there is an epiphyte for your home or garden. From the vivid bromeliads and ornate orchids to sculptural ferns and draping mosses, these plants bring a natural wonder to any space. Explore, experiment, and enjoy these natural marvels!

Discover Top Epiphytic Plants on Trees

Watch the video to explore top epiphytic plants on trees, learn easy care tips, and get inspired to elevate your garden with air-dried beauties!

Author

Anjali Sayee

 

Anjali is an Associate Editor at StyleCraze with 7 years of experience specializing in hairstyles, hair care, and skin care. She has authored over 300 articles and offers expert advice on hair styling techniques, effective skin care routines, and tips for maintaining healthy hair and skin.

Read full bio of Anjali Sayee