© Em Lamond, some rights reserved (CC-BY) · iNaturalist
Thuidiopsis spp.
feather-moss
Australasia and the southern hemisphere
SunPart Shade – Full Shade
WaterHigh
Overview
Thuidiopsis spp. is a genus of pleurocarpous mosses in the family Thuidiaceae, found on soil, rock, rotting logs, and tree bases in shaded, moist habitats, mainly in Australia, New Zealand, and nearby regions. Plants creep along the substrate by branching primary stems and produce regularly pinnate, feather-like sprays of slender, much-divided branches, forming low, soft mats 0.5-2 inches (1-5 cm) deep. The small leaves are toothed and often bear tiny surface projections, giving the mats a dull, slightly rough texture in green to yellow-green. As a moss, Thuidiopsis spp. has no roots, flowers, or seeds; it anchors by rhizoids and reproduces by spores released from capsules raised on slender stalks. The mats trap moisture and litter and knit loose soil and rotting wood together in damp, shaded sites. Plants need steady humidity and shade and shrivel quickly when the surface dries or direct sun reaches them. Growth is slow, and colonies build up gradually over time.
Native Range
Thuidiopsis spp. occurs mainly in Australia, New Zealand, and surrounding parts of the southern hemisphere. Species grow on damp soil, rock, logs, and tree bases in forest and other shaded, humid habitats.Suggested Uses
Used on shaded soil and rockwork, in stumperies and water features, and in terrariums and moss gardens where humidity stays high. Suited to clothing damp ground and rotting wood in shade.How to Identify
Appearance
Size & Dimensions
Height1" - 2"
Width/Spread6" - 2'
Bloom Information
Thuidiopsis spp. reproduces by spores and does not flower. Spore capsules mature mainly in the cooler, wetter months. New feather-like shoots extend from the creeping stems during humid periods.
Detailed Descriptions
Foliage Description
green to yellow-greenGrowing Conditions
Sun Requirements
Tolerates up to 4 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
Water & Climate
Water Needs
Care & Maintenance
Care Guide
Grow in partial to deep shade on damp soil, rock, or rotting wood in a constantly humid setting such as a shaded bed, water feature, or terrarium. Keep the surface and surrounding air moist, as the mats brown and curl when they dry. Plants suit slightly acidic to neutral substrates rich in organic matter. Clear fallen leaves and competing debris that settle on the mat. Mist during dry spells to maintain the moist film the moss depends on.Pruning
No pruning is needed. Clear fallen leaves and debris that settle on the mat to prevent smothering. Detached pieces can be pressed onto damp substrate to start new colonies.Container Growing
✓ Suitable for container growing
Minimum container size: 1 gallons