Orchid in the Tree - an Epiphyte

in epiphyte •  7 years ago 

Epiphytes are plants which rely on other larger plants for physical support. Epiphytes are totally independent otherwise. They do not take anything out of their host plant that supports them. This distinguishes them from Parasitic plants, such as the Mistletoe, which i wrote a post on recently.

An Epiphyte derives it's nutrients from the air, rain, and from the debris that accumulates around it's roots. Debris comes from it's host tree ( fallen leaves etc) and also from bird droppings , insects and other things that fall out of the tree canopy, and these provide nutrients as they collect and decay. Epiphytes provide valuable habitat for Birds, insects, frogs, and many other creatures.

Some common Epihpytic plants include Orchids, different types of Ferns, Bromeliads and Cacti. The photo here is of an Orchid in the fork of an old tree in North-Western New South Wales, Australia.

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When I read your post I realize that nature has similar laws lie Steemit. We better grow and succeed together.

Well, parasitic probably exist too, but I am inspired by nature. How all amazing thinkgs brought to technology comes from it.

Wow never saw it that way!

You are right, Parasitic plants exist, just like Parasitic people ! Present company excluded, of course :) Technology is very useful, like Cryptos.

Thank God for it (literally;)

Informative and educative post. Thumbs up👍

Gotta love them as they beautify the host tree like orchids and such.

Yes, they are great to see when walking around the bushland.

Sometimes they have these nest-like leaves on the plant's base like the bird's nest fern, I don't know if it is an Epiphyte but it sure looks pretty on a tree. They thrive in moist barks and environments like the orchids.

Yeah, Birds Nest Ferns are Epiphytes too. We have them here.

  ·  7 years ago (edited)

You really know about nature, plants and animals. Thank you for sharing, I look forward to more of your posts. 😝
I will share about your article. Haha

You are welcome to share. Thanks !

Nothing. That is you need to. 😋

Yes maam ! :)

When it comes to plants relying on other plants the only thing that comes to mind are parasites, i never thought there was plants relying on plants for physical support. Thanks for sharing such informations your articles as always are so educative and informative.

My pleasure, Damien !

Ha yes i love George.

Very informative, thanks for sharing.