Cypress-leaved Plait-moss
Hypnum cupressiforme
Also listed as Cupressina afrocupressiformis, Cupressina cupressiformis
Climate Match for your location
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A delicate, feathery moss with cypress-like branching that forms attractive mats on rocks, logs, and tree bark. Commonly used in terrariums and shade gardens for its fine texture and year-round greenery.
Why grow it
Hypnum cupressiforme offers finer, more delicate branching than many common moss alternatives, making it useful where a feathery texture is desired in shade plantings. It establishes readily on vertical surfaces like tree bark and rock faces, providing year-round ground cover in shaded areas where vascular plants struggle. Unlike some moss species, it tolerates moderate foot traffic once established, though it prefers undisturbed sites.
Watch out for
This moss requires consistent moisture without waterlogging; poorly draining substrates can lead to rot rather than growth. It performs best in dappled to full shade and may thin in areas receiving direct afternoon sun, particularly in warm climates. Established mats can take several seasons to fill in, so patience is needed before evaluating success.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Hypnaceae
Native to the United States
Native Range
Widespread in Northern Hemisphere
Native to: Alaska, Arkansas, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Georgia, Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Massachusetts, Maryland, Maine, Michigan, Missouri, Montana, North Carolina, North Dakota, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, Wyoming
Seasonality
Season of Interest
Ground cover
Low spreading plants that carpet the soil.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Propagation
A delicate, feathery moss with cypress-like branching that forms attractive mats on rocks, logs, and tree bark. Commonly used in terrariums and shade gardens for its fine texture and year-round greenery.
Climate Match for your location
See how well Cypress-leaved Plait-moss grows in your area.
Enter your ZIP code and we'll show you how this plant fits your local climate.
Why grow it
Hypnum cupressiforme offers finer, more delicate branching than many common moss alternatives, making it useful where a feathery texture is desired in shade plantings. It establishes readily on vertical surfaces like tree bark and rock faces, providing year-round ground cover in shaded areas where vascular plants struggle. Unlike some moss species, it tolerates moderate foot traffic once established, though it prefers undisturbed sites.
Watch out for
This moss requires consistent moisture without waterlogging; poorly draining substrates can lead to rot rather than growth. It performs best in dappled to full shade and may thin in areas receiving direct afternoon sun, particularly in warm climates. Established mats can take several seasons to fill in, so patience is needed before evaluating success.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Hypnaceae
Native to the United States
Native Range
Widespread in Northern Hemisphere
Native to: Alaska, Arkansas, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Georgia, Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Massachusetts, Maryland, Maine, Michigan, Missouri, Montana, North Carolina, North Dakota, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, Wyoming
Seasonality
Season of Interest
Ground cover
Low spreading plants that carpet the soil.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Propagation
Similar ground covers you might consider:
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