Lewinskya spp.

bristle moss

Temperate and montane regions of both hemispheres

Native to North America

SunPart Sun

Overview

Lewinskya spp. is a genus of cushion- and tuft-forming mosses in the family Orthotrichaceae, segregated from Orthotrichum spp. on the basis of immersed stomata and erect capsules. Plants are small, typically forming dense green to dark-green cushions 0.4-2 inches (1-5 cm) tall on tree bark, rock, and occasionally soil. The narrow leaves are lance-shaped, 2-4 mm long, with margins rolled under and a single nerve running to near the tip; when dry the leaves twist and press against the stem, and when moist they spread outward. Reproduction is by spores produced in erect, ribbed capsules held just above the leaves on short stalks, with capsules maturing through spring and summer. The genus is widespread in temperate and montane regions of both hemispheres, where many species grow as epiphytes in well-lit, humid forests and on isolated trees. Species are sensitive to prolonged drought and to air pollution, and several serve as indicators of air quality. Identification to species relies on microscopic capsule and peristome characters rather than field appearance.

Native Range

Lewinskya spp. species occur in temperate, Mediterranean, and montane regions of both the Northern and Southern Hemispheres, including Europe, Asia, North and South America, Africa, and Australasia, where they grow chiefly as epiphytes on bark and on exposed rock.

Suggested Uses

In their native range Lewinskya spp. mosses form part of epiphyte communities on tree trunks and branches and are studied as indicators of air quality and forest humidity. They are not grown in horticulture or sold in the nursery trade.

How to Identify

Look for small, dense green cushions on bark or rock, 0.4-2 inches (1-5 cm) across, with narrow leaves whose margins are rolled under. When dry the leaves curve and twist against the stem; when wet they spread. Erect, ribbed spore capsules sit on short stalks just above the leaf tips. Separating the species requires microscopic examination of the capsule mouth and spores.

Appearance

Colors

Foliage Colors

green

Fall Foliage Colors

no change

Detailed Descriptions

Foliage Description

Green to dark green

Growing Conditions

Sun Requirements

Part Sun

Soil Requirements

Drainagemoist

Water & Climate

Water Needs

Medium

Care & Maintenance

Care Guide

Lewinskya spp. mosses grow in humid, well-lit situations on bark and rock and are not generally brought into cultivation. They depend on regular moisture from rain, dew, and humid air, drying during dry spells and reviving when rewetted. Most species occupy positions with good light rather than deep shade. They are sensitive to extended drought and to sulphur dioxide and other air pollutants, which limits them in heavily polluted areas. Stable humidity and clean air sustain established colonies.