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Overview
Sematophyllum is a genus of small pleurocarpous mosses in the family Sematophyllaceae, widely distributed across tropical and temperate regions worldwide. Plants form thin, often glossy mats of creeping, branched stems clothed in small, concave leaves usually less than 0.1 inch (2 mm) long. As mosses they have no flowers, roots, or vascular tissue, and water and nutrients are absorbed directly across the surface. Spore capsules are raised on short stalks above the mat and shed spores when ripe. The mats grow on tree bark, rotting logs, and rock in humid, shaded habitats, and many species form a green to golden carpet. Within the genus, species are separated by microscopic leaf-cell and capsule features rather than by overall appearance. Plants dry out and curl in drought and revive when moisture returns.
Native Range
Widely distributed across tropical and temperate regions of the Americas, Africa, Asia, and Australasia. Plants grow on bark, decaying wood, and rock in humid forest, on shaded banks, and along streams, mainly at low to moderate elevations.Suggested Uses
Sematophyllum is observed in its natural habitat on bark, logs, and rock in humid forest and is not used in conventional horticulture. Where moss growth is encouraged, humid shade and undisturbed surfaces favor it. It is not grown in borders or containers.How to Identify
Growing 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