Epiphytes are plants which depend on other plants for

1. Epiphytes are plants that grow on other plants (such as trees) non-parasitically. 2. They derive moisture and nutrients from the air, rain, and sometimes from debris accumulating around them, rather than from the host plant's vascular system. 3. Their primary reason for growing on other plants is to gain a better position for sunlight, especially in dense forests, and to escape competition on the forest floor. 4. Therefore, epiphytes depend on other plants mainly for mechanical support to hold them in a favorable position. 5. They do not depend on the host for food (unlike parasitic plants), shade (they usually seek light), or water directly from the host's system (though the host's structure might help trap moisture).