What is the plant that lives on trees and moves

Have you ever seen a plant that moves on its own? Although it might sound like something out of a science fiction movie, such plants do exist. They are commonly known as epiphytes or air plants, and many of them grow on trees.

Epiphytes or Air Plants

Epiphytes are plants that grow on other plants, using them only for support but not for nutrients. Common examples of epiphytes include ferns, orchids, and bromeliads. These plants are often found in tropical rainforests, where they can thrive without touching the ground.

Air plants, also known as Tillandsia, are another type of epiphyte that can be found on trees. Unlike other epiphytes, air plants do not grow in soil but absorb water and nutrients from the air through their leaves.

Tree-Climbing Plants

Although epiphytes are not parasites and do not harm their host trees, there are some plants that grow on trees and climb them for support. These plants are known as vine or climbing plants, and they are usually equipped with roots or tendrils that wrap around the tree trunk to climb higher.

One famous tree-climbing plant is the vanilla orchid, which is native to Central America. The vanilla orchid is used for its flavoring properties and can only grow in a tropical climate with a tree for support.

Moving Plants

In addition to climbing trees, there are some plants that move on their own, allowing them to find better environments for survival. One example is the telegraph plant, which is native to India and can move its leaves to detect changes in the environment such as light and temperature.

Another moving plant is the sensitive plant or Mimosa pudica, which is known for its shrinking behavior when touched. The plant folds its leaves inward and droops when it is disturbed, a mechanism that helps protect it from predators.

The Benefits of Trees with Epiphytes

Epiphytes and other plants that live on trees can benefit both the plant and the host. These plants help purify the air by absorbing pollutants and producing oxygen, and they can also provide additional habitats for animals and insects.

For the host tree, having epiphytes can help regulate temperature and humidity levels and prevent soil erosion. Epiphytes can also act as a buffer and protect the tree from extreme weather conditions such as strong winds and heavy rainfall.

The Bottom Line

The plant that lives on trees and moves might seem like a mysterious creature, but it is actually a diverse group of plants that includes epiphytes and some vine or climbing plants. These plants can provide valuable benefits to the environment and are an important part of the ecosystem.