The Southeastern United States, especially central Florida, have sights and sounds that are unique to the area. Many travelers want to experience the sights, sounds, tastes, smells and feel of an area. In central Florida this can be done with the amusement parks, museums, beaches, and nightlife. This glitz and glamour often allow the traveler to over look the feel of an area. A quiet walk through many neighborhoods of large, mature trees often gives the feel of the old south as the Spanish Moss hangs from the trees. The sight of the moss blowing on the gentle ocean breeze allows the visitor to escape time, easily transporting the visitor back to the days of the explorers and settlers.
Another way to experience Spanish Moss is through a visit to many of the Florida state parks, such as Blue Springs State Park. This experience allows the appreciation of the rivers and runs often nearly hidden by the trees and moss. This is a jungle feel which contrasts with many other urban adventures possible in Florida.
The Science of the Spanish Moss
The Spanish moss which hangs from the tree does the tree little if any harm since it is not a parasite and it is not a true moss. It is an epiphytic plant related to the pineapple. It has no root system and does not need one since it draws its water and food directly from the air. Therefore, it is known as Air Plant and is often sold a novelty. It is a flowering plant that can have it grey strands reach lengths over twenty feet as it hangs from trees.
The Legend of the Spanish Moss
The science behind the Spanish moss is interesting, however, the legend of the Spanish Moss can spark the imagination. This legend adds to the fascination and allows the imagination to enjoy the beauty of the Spanish Moss even more. The legend begins with a beautiful Indian princess. She is beloved not only by her father and grandfather, but by the entire tribe. The tribe is constantly harassed by the Spanish pirates along the coast. In order to prevent the continuous attacks, a bargain is struck. This bargain allows the purchase of one maiden by the pirate named of Gomez. Gomez, of course chooses the most beautiful princess.
At first, the princess is willing to be sold. The stories are told of how cruel Gomez is to animals and people. Gomez is not only cruel but ugly with many scars, a foul odor, ratted hair and a long stringy grey beard. At the sight of him, the princess runs away. Gomez gives chase and the princess is able to continue her escape by climbing a tree. Gomez, although, not as agile as the princess, follows up the tree. The princess crept to the edge of a branch and then just as she was about to be grabbed by Gomez she escaped by diving in to the clear waters below. The branch snapped and Gomez was caught in the branches of the tree by his long beard. Soon he died but his grey beard is still visible in the trees to this day.
When touring central Florida enjoy the hustle and bustle of the amusement parks, beaches and city life, but be sure to observe the natural life in the neighbors and parks.
Sources:
World Book Encyclopedia
Florida State Parks
Kim Youmans - Kim Youmans is an acclaimed educator, teaching preschool through graduate school. He writes about Theology, travels, and the outdoors.
