The year of moss: day 11

This afternoon, I was climbing at Britten crag in the Port Hills, which is situated in open tussock grassland. As such, the crag is home to many hardy mosses that grow well in these exposed conditions. This cute little cushion of moss was sitting on a rock by the side of the track to the crag. This moss is Grimmia pulvinata. Grimmia pulvinata is widespread and common in temperate regions worldwide, growing on rocks, bricks, or occasionally tree trunks. The plants form tight little cushions, and the leaves each have a long hairpoint, giving the cushions a fuzzy look. The capsules of this species only add to its cuteness, starting off drooping and immersed in the leaves, before straightening out and extending beyond the leaves as they mature. I feel I should say something profound to wrap up this post, but I can’t think what to say… so have a good evening, and the next time you happen across Grimmia pulvinata, greet it as a new (or old, for those who were already familiar with the species) friend.
Cuteness: 9/10
Distinctiveness: 9/10
LMR: 9/10

Posted on October 27, 2024 06:32 AM by fuligogirl