Epiphyte.

A plant that grows on another plant, usually a tree, for support only, taking water and nutrients from rain, air and debris rather than from its host.

What it means for your plants

Epiphytic roots are adapted to rapid wetting and drying with plenty of air, so they rot in dense, constantly wet media. Grow them in bark, sphagnum or mounted, and water thoroughly but only when the medium has nearly dried.

Put it into practice

Choose a suitable houseplant potting mix, understand bag labels and ingredients, and avoid drainage mistakes without relying on a universal soil recipe.