Polytrichum is also known as Haircap moss. This type is derived from the fine hair-like calyptras found on the young sporophytes.
The Appearance Of Haircap Moss
Haircap Moss has narrow, toothed, and erect leaf margins. Looking down at it, one can see it is star-shaped because of the spirally arranged pointed leaves around the stem at right angles. It is usually dark green and grows relatively flat to the ground. This type can live for approximately three to five years. The plant can grow to form a lush green carpet across the ground.
Haircap Moss Loves Shade
There are many separate species of this vegetation spread throughout the North American continent. It is an evergreen plant that grows to about a foot or shorter in height. The plant is unbranched, light green, red, and yellowish brown. This plant grows in slightly shaded areas in moist soil. It serves as a land cover in landscaping and gardens. Some people use this moss to make tea, which is known to help dissolve kidney and gallbladder stones. Some women use this same tea to help strengthen their hair. This plant prefers full sun to partially sunny environments with moist soil.
Haircap Moss Was Used For Pillows
This Haircap Moss is found in bogs and swamp sites. It is used as ground cover in landscaping. It is a central component in peat used in making fuels, a soil additive in gardens, and smoked malt used in Scotch whiskey production. In some areas of the world, it is used in clothing fabric to help make it more insulated. Some other uses include making brushes, brooms, and even a filling for pillows and mattresses. As you can see, this plant is for more than just gardens and landscaping. It also has other interesting uses as well.