Ctenidium, Genus, molluscum, Species,
- Genus & species
Comb-moss
Europe, Asia, North Africa, North America
SunFull Sun – Part Shade
WaterMedium
Overview
Ctenidium molluscum is a spreading pleurocarpous moss that forms soft mats and patches, golden-green to yellow-green in colour. Shoots are 1-4 inches (2.5-10 cm) long and regularly pinnately branched, giving a feathered, comb-like outline. The narrow leaves are strongly curved to one side and taper to slender points, with toothed margins and a short or double nerve. Patches creep over rock and soil, the prostrate stems anchored by rhizoids and building up into low, springy cushions. Reproduction is by spores from capsules raised on reddish stalks, though these form only occasionally; spread is mainly by fragments and creeping growth. Colonies stay green through the year and dry to a duller tone in drought, reviving after rain. The moss is closely tied to lime-rich substrates and does not grow on strongly acidic ground.
Native Range
Widespread across Europe, parts of Asia, North Africa, and North America, mainly in regions with calcareous rock. Grows on limestone outcrops, base-rich soil, stony banks, dune slacks, and short calcareous grassland, from sea level to montane elevations.How to Identify
Appearance
Colors
Foliage Colors
Fall Foliage Colors
Detailed Descriptions
Foliage Description
golden-green to yellow-greenGrowing Conditions
Sun Requirements
• Full Sun: 6+ hours of direct sunlight
• Partial Shade: 3-6 hours of direct sunlight
• Full Shade: Less than 3 hours of direct sunlight
Water & Climate
Water Needs