Moss Specimen

Thuidium delicatulum [Hedw.] Schimp. is an often large, robust moss which forms dense green to reddish golden mats and resembles the fronds of a small fern. Stems are arched and densely covered in narrow scale-like leaves 0.5mm in length. Larger compound stem leaves are 1mm in length and broadly ovate, to triangular-ovate in shape. Stalks with spore bearing capsules are produced infrequently from the leaves of the moss. When they do occur, the stalks are 1.5-4.5cm long. The apex of each stalk has a solitary spore bearing capsule, 2-4mm long. Spores are released into the wind as the stalk ages.

Thuidium delicatulum grows in habitats with partial sun to medium shade, in wet to moist conditions, in acidic soil or humus. It will grow on rotting logs and on shaded weathered sandstone in protected areas, such as wooded ravines. It has a wide distribution in North and South America as well as Europe, Northern Asia, Middle America and Southern Asia. It can be found in each of the Maritime provinces, although it is less common in Prince County, PEI.

Historically, fern mosses have been used to fill holes in log cabins, as stuffing in mattresses, cradles and coffins, for packing material and for ornamental purposes.