Overview
Tortula spp. is a genus of acrocarpous mosses in the family Pottiaceae, growing on soil, rock, walls, mortar, bark, and disturbed ground across much of the world, often in dry, sunny, or calcareous places. The plants form green to yellow-green cushions and turfs usually 0.2-1.2 inches (0.5-3 cm) tall, frequently hoary where the broad, tongue-shaped leaves end in a long white or clear hair-point. The leaves spread and recurve when moist but twist and curl against the stem when dry, a movement that gives the genus its name. Tortula spp. tolerates drought and strong sun, reviving quickly from a dried, shrivelled state when rain returns. Cylindrical spore capsules are held upright on stalks and bear a spirally twisted fringe of teeth at the mouth that responds to humidity, helping spread the spores. Several species are common on walls, roofs, pavements, and bare ground, including in towns, and some are pioneers on disturbed soil. The genus favours base-rich and calcareous surfaces but also grows on neutral ground. Broad hair-pointed leaves and twisting dry shoots identify the genus, though species need microscopic study.
Native Range
Tortula spp. is widespread worldwide, growing on soil, rock, walls, mortar, bark, and disturbed ground, often in dry, sunny, or calcareous habitats. Several species are common on walls, roofs, and pavements, including in towns.Suggested Uses
Tortula spp. species colonise walls, roofs, paving, and bare soil on their own and are used on green roofs and in moss gardens for drought-tolerant cover in sun. The genus indicates base-rich and disturbed habitats and is studied as a pollution- and drought-tolerant urban moss. Cushions are used in moss craft.How to Identify
Appearance
Colors
Foliage Colors
Bloom Information
Mosses do not flower. Tortula spp. reproduces by spores from cylindrical capsules held upright on stalks, with a spirally twisted fringe of teeth that helps release spores as humidity changes. Some species also spread by gemmae and shoot fragments.
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