Is Spanish moss safe? Bugs, cleaning, and allergies

What Spanish moss is

Spanish moss isn't a true moss. It's a bromeliad, Tillandsia usneoides, in the same plant family as the pineapple. It hangs from trees across the Southeast but isn't a parasite: it takes water and nutrients from the air and rain, not from the tree (UF/IFAS Extension).

Bugs

Spanish moss grows outdoors, so small insects can live in it. Ours is harvested in Central Florida and cleaned before it's packed, but a few tiny insects can still turn up in a natural product.

If you want to be extra careful before you use it indoors:

1. Seal the moss in a large plastic bag.
2. Leave the bag in a freezer for a few days.
3. Let the moss come back to room temperature, then fluff it by hand.

Allergies and handling

Dried plant material sheds fine dust. If you're sensitive to plant material:

• Wear gloves.
• Work in a ventilated room or outdoors.
• Shake the moss out over a drop cloth before you start.

Fire safety

Dry Spanish moss catches fire easily. Keep it away from candles, string lights that run hot, fireplaces, and other heat sources.

Pets and reptiles

We don't make safety claims for pets or reptiles. Each label lists what we know about the moss, such as whether it's dyed, so you can decide for your own animals.