Barbula calycina
Overview
Barbula calycina is a small acrocarpous moss forming low green to yellow-green turfs or cushions, typically 0.2-0.8 inch (5-20 mm) tall. The stems are erect and densely leafy, with lanceolate leaves about 0.04-0.12 inch (1-3 mm) long that twist and curl inward when dry and spread when moist. Each leaf has a single midrib that extends to or just beyond the leaf tip. Reproduction is by spores rather than flowers or seed; spore capsules are held on reddish stalks roughly 0.2-0.4 inch (5-10 mm) long and are cylindrical, becoming brown at maturity. The moss grows on bare soil, clay banks, rock crevices, and disturbed ground, often in exposed sites. It revives from a dry, shrivelled state after rain, greening within hours. Growth is slow and confined to the surface layer, and the cushions remain only a few millimetres deep.
Native Range
Widely distributed in Australia across all mainland states and Tasmania, and recorded in New Zealand and other Southern Hemisphere regions. Grows on soil, clay, and rock in open forest, grassland, roadside cuttings, and other disturbed or exposed habitats, from lowland to montane elevations.Suggested Uses
Acts as a soil-surface colonizer that stabilizes bare clay and disturbed ground and is seldom deliberately planted. It appears on its own on paths, cuttings, and exposed soil rather than in managed plantings. It has no culinary or cut use.How to Identify
Appearance
Size & Dimensions
Width/Spread2" - 6"
Bloom Information
This moss does not flower. It reproduces by spores released from cylindrical capsules, which mature mainly after the cooler, wetter months of the year. Capsule production depends on adequate moisture and may be sparse in dry seasons.
Detailed Descriptions
Foliage Description
Green to yellow-greenGrowing Conditions
Sun Requirements
Requires 3-8 hours of direct sunlight daily
• Full Sun: 6+ hours of direct sunlight
• Partial Shade: 3-6 hours of direct sunlight
• Full Shade: Less than 3 hours of direct sunlight