Lyell’s Bristle-moss

Orthotrichum lyellii

Moist and dry forms of the moss photographed on a nature reserve. Quite a distinctive moss forming small balled tufts on trees, growing up to 4cm tall. It has narrow leaves which carry tiny vegetative propagation structures called gemmea. Fruiting capsules tend to be very rare.

Found all year round growing on a wide range of trees. Uncommon but widespread.

Photographs taken January and February 2014, nature reserve, Staffordshire.