Orthotrichum pulchellum
elegant bristle-moss
Western and central Europe, Macaronesia
Overview
Orthotrichum pulchellum is a small epiphytic moss that grows in neat cushions and tufts up to about 0.6 inch (15 mm) across on the twigs and branches of trees and shrubs. The cushions are dark green to yellowish-green, drying to a duller olive, and are built from short erect shoots clothed in narrow lance-shaped leaves 0.08-0.12 inch (2-3 mm) long. When dry the leaves twist and press against the stem, and when moist they spread outward. Like all mosses it has no roots, flowers, or true vascular tissue, anchoring instead by hair-like rhizoids and taking up water directly over its surface. Reproduction is by spores formed in ribbed capsules held just above the leaves on very short stalks; the capsule mouth carries a ring of reflexed teeth and the young capsule is topped with a hairy cap. It grows mainly on the smooth bark of nutrient-rich twigs, such as those of elder, willow, and hazel, and sometimes on rock. The species is sensitive to air pollution and has spread again in many regions as air quality has improved. Its small size and habit of growing high on twigs make it easy to overlook.
Native Range
Orthotrichum pulchellum is native to western and central Europe and Macaronesia, growing in lowland and coastal districts. It is most frequent in areas with clean, humid air, on the twigs of trees and shrubs.Suggested Uses
Orthotrichum pulchellum is not cultivated. It serves in ecology as an indicator of clean, humid air and is studied in bryology and woodland survey work. On trees it forms part of the epiphytic community alongside other mosses and lichens.How to Identify
Appearance
Colors
Foliage Colors
Bloom Information
This moss does not flower. Spore capsules develop over autumn and winter and release spores in spring, completing reproduction without seeds or flowers.
Detailed Descriptions
Foliage Description
Dark green to yellowish-green