Semiepiphyte (Noun)
Meaning
A plant that is an epiphyte for part of its life.
Classification
Nouns denoting plants.
Examples
- The strangler fig is a classic example of a semiepiphyte, starting its life as an epiphyte on a host tree before eventually becoming a freestanding tree itself.
- Some species of orchids are semiepiphytes, germinating on a host tree but eventually developing their own roots and becoming independent.
- The resurrection fern is a semiepiphyte that grows on the trunks and branches of trees, but can also form its own roots and grow on the ground.
- Certain species of bromeliads are semiepiphytes, starting their lives as epiphytes on trees but eventually falling to the ground and continuing to grow as terrestrial plants.
- The philodendron is a semiepiphyte that can grow as an epiphyte on a host tree, but can also produce aerial roots that allow it to absorb moisture and nutrients from the air.