silvery threadmoss
Family
BryaceaeScientific Name
Bryum argenteumOther Common Names:
silver thread moss
silvery bryum
silvergreen bryum moss
Synonyms (former Scientific Names):
Bryum lanatum
Bryum argenteum var. lanatum
Bryum argenteum var. majus
Habit
Forms a dense mat and is spread by airborne spores.
Leaves
Leaves are awl shaped usually very small with no stalk and spiral around a very short stem.
Identifying Characteristics
Mature leaves are white due to a lack of chlorophyll. Leaves are crowded and overlap giving this moss a cylinder like appearance.
Seed Fruit
Fruit is a capsule containing spores.
Where Found
Throughout the United States this species is a problem in dry compacted soils i.e. golf greens as well as walking paths, between stepping stones, and in sidewalk cracks.
Life Cycle
perennial
Plant Type
Moss