8 Types Of Moss That Grows On Trees
Moss is a type of plant that can be found growing on trees in many parts of the world. There are approximately 12,000 different species of moss, and each one has its own unique characteristics.
Some types of moss prefer to grow on hard surfaces like stone or concrete, while others prefer softer wooden surfaces like tree bark.
However, out of 12,000 moss species, only a handful of them are commonly found growing on trees.
Now, there are a number of reasons why moss grows on trees, but, before we get into that, let’s take a look at which types of moss are most common for growing on trees.
8 Types Of Moss That Grows On Trees
1. Tree Moss
Tree moss (Order Bryales) is the most common type of moss found on trees! This type of moss usually grows in patches around the tree branches and actually has a pale green color which then turns to a dark green color when mature.
When up close, the stems of the moss should be slightly reddish-brown in color. The moss itself has a woolly texture that can reach heights of (2 to 4 inches). If this is the case, then you’re looking at tree moss.
Tree moss is common in Europe, and North America and can be found on a variety of trees, including oak, pine, and spruce.
Take Note: It’s important to note that tree moss does not harm the tree! In fact, it’s actually a benefit as it helps retain moisture in the tree bark.
Common Characteristics Of Tree Moss Include:
- Has A Woolly Texture
- Grows In Patches On Branches
- Thrives In Moist Environments
- Can Reach Heights Of 2 To 4 Inches
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2. Spanish Moss
Spanish moss (Tillandsia Usneoides) is a type of moss that’s found in the southeastern United States, Central America, and parts of South America. It gets its name from the fact that it was introduced to North America by Spanish missionaries in the 1700s.
This type of moss is typically seen hanging from trees, often looking like long strands of white hair. The hanging structure can grow up to 6 m (20 feet) in length and has a cotton-like texture.
Instead of roots, this moss uses its white hair that has scales on the exterior to absorb water and nutrients. This moss is also non-parasitic meaning it poses no harm to the tree.
Common Characteristics Of Spanish Moss Include:
- Moss Is Non-Parasitic
- Has Scales On Its Exterior
- Grows Up To 20 Feet In Length
- Hangs Down From Trees
3. Mood Moss
Mood Moss (Dicranum Scoparium) typically grows on the trunks of trees and can reach heights of 3 to 4 inches.
However, this moss has a unique feature, it can change into different shades of green depending on the weather getting its name mood moss.
For example, if it’s growing in a shady area, it will be dark green, but if it’s growing in a sunny area, it will be light green. Mood moss is good for the tree and helps to retain moisture in the bark.
This type of moss can be found in the Pacific Northwest region of North America.
Common Characteristics Of Mood Moss Include:
- Grows On The Trunks Of Trees
- Can Reach Heights of Up To 12 Inches
- Helps Retain Moisture In Bark
- Changes Different Shades Of Green
4. Feather Moss
There are many different types of feather moss however this one (Kindbergia Praelonga) is very common and can be found in many parts of the world.
This type of feather moss typically grows on the ground, however, it can also be found growing on the trunks of trees.
It has thin, green leaves that have triangular-shaped tips and gets its name from the fact that it looks like feathers. It grows 3cm long and grows best in damp shaded areas of the tree.
Common Characteristics Of Feather Moss Include:
- Grows On Trunks Of Trees
- Leaves Have Triangular-Shaped Tips
- Grows Up To A Length of 3cm
- Prefers Damp Shaded Areas
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5. Shaggy Moss
Shaggy moss (Rhytidiadelphus Triquetrus) is usually found in the united kingdom and grows either on the ground, on decaying logs, or on trees.
Its light green can grow up to (20cm) in height and thrives in moist environments.
This moss gets its name from the fact that it has a shaggy texture and can be easily identified by its long, twisted stems.
Common Characteristics Of Shaggy Moss Include:
- Grows Up To A Length of 20cm
- Thrives In Moist Environments
- Has A Shaggy Texture
- Long, Twisted Stems
6. Seductive Moss
Seductive moss (Entodon Seductrix) is another type that grows on the floor, stones, tree trunks, and branches. It’s a very shiny type of moss and has dark green leaves that can grow up to 5 inches tall.
This moss can also be found growing on dead and rotting trees which is usually in shaded and moist areas and is quite attractive in appearance getting its name “seductive moss”.
It’s a very resilient type of moss that can hold up in the coldest climates. For trees, this can be very beneficial as protects them from harsh weather conditions.
Common Characteristics Of Seductive Moss Include:
- Has An Attractive Appearance
- Can Be Found On Trunks, Branches
- Thrives In Shaded, Moist Areas
- Grows Up To 5 Inches
7. Sheet Moss
Sheet Moss (Hypnum Curvifolium) is more of a ground moss, that spreads out like a carpet getting its name sheet moss. However, it can be found growing on dead wood and this includes dead trees.
Much like Seductive Moss this moss thrives in shaded, moist areas and can vary in size, depending on its surroundings.
The moss itself has a light green look and the texture is much like a rugged carpet. It can grow in warm and cold climates, however, this type doesn’t do well in direct sunlight.
Common Characteristics Of Sheet Moss Include:
- Grows On Dead Fallen Trees
- Thrives In Shaded, Moist Areas
- Has A Rugged Carpet Texture
- Varies In Size
8. Fire Moss
Fire Moss (Ceratodon Purpureus) is definitely a unique type of moss and is typically found growing on burnt trees in post-wildfire environments.
The moss is green in color and has red-colored stalks that are around (0.5 inches) which forms dense tufts or patches on the burnt trees.
This moss is widespread in places like Canada and the United States and can withstand higher pollution levels compared to your average moss and prefers lots of light but it’s also shade tolerant.
Common Characteristics Of Sheet Moss Include:
- Grows On Burnt Trees
- Forms Dense Tufts
- Prefers High Light
- Stalks Grow 0.5 Inches
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Why Does Moss Grow On Trees?
Moss grows on trees for a number of reasons, including the availability of moisture and nutrients, and the presence of suitable habitat.
Moss needs a moist area and plenty of sunlight to photosynthesize, and trees provide both of these things.
It can also grow on any part of a tree where it has access to these things – on the trunk, branches, leaves, and even the roots.
Another reason why moss grows on trees is that the tree’s bark is covered in lichens!
Lichens are a type of symbiotic relationship between two different types of organisms – a fungus and an alga. Lichens attach themselves to tree bark, providing a perfect place for moss to grow.
Can It Be Harmful To Trees?
Moss can provide many benefits to trees, including protection from wind and sun damage, improved water retention, and increased soil stability.
However, if you leave the moss to grow on the tree it can smother new buds and after a while, it can become a nuisance!
With that said, if you have moss that’s quite attractive like the “Seductive moss” then there’s no harm in leaving it on the tree.
Where Does Moss Grow On Trees?
Moss can pretty much grow anywhere on trees! But, only if the conditions are right for that type of moss! For example, some moss will grow thicker on the north side of trees where it is shady and moist.
This is mainly because moss is very sensitive to moisture and if the south side does dry quicker than the north side then that is where all the moss will grow.
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Can Moss Be Removed From The Trees?
Moss is a type of plant that grows on trees, which can be removed in various ways. One way to remove moss from the tree is to use a pressure washer!
This is the most effective and efficient way of removing moss from the tree, as it’s only water your using and not chemicals.
However, if you don’t have access to a pressure washer then moss can also be removed by using a chemical treatment such as bleach or vinegar.
Methods For Removing Moss From A Tree:
- Use Pressure Washer (Recommended)
- Use Bleach Or Vinegar
You will find that moss is easier to remove when it is in its early stages. But once the moss has established itself, removing it becomes much more difficult.
You also need to be carful of moss spores! If spores are blasted using a presure washer they can easily break off and spread to other parts of your garden!
How To Remove The Moss From A Tree:
- Gently Scrap Off Using A Blunt Tool Or Brush
- Finish Using A Pressure Washer
To avoid this it’s best to gently scrape off the loose moss by hand first using a blunt tool or brush and then finish off using the pressure washer.
Can You Prevent Moss Growing On Trees?
Can you prevent moss from growing on trees? Moss will grow on trees if the condition is right! Which are usually moist and shady.
Trying to prevent moss from growing on the tree can be easier said than done, but it’s not impossible! It will require regular maintenance to keep the tree dry and clean.
Tips For Preventing Moss Growing On Trees:
- Keep Your Tree Mulched
- Keep Your Tree’s Surface Dry
- Scrub Down The Tree Weekly
Final Thoughts
While some people may see moss as a nuisance, it’s important to remember that it serves an important purpose in the environment.
If you’re not sure how to get rid of moss that’s growing on your trees, be sure to check out our moss removal category!
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