Woodsy Silk-moss - Plagiothecium nemorale

Plagiothecium nemorale has sparsely branched shoots arranged in one plane. The leaves are 2 to 3.2 mm long, egg-shaped to narrowly egg-shaped, and are mostly more or less symmetrical. The nerve is weak and double, although it may reach as far as mid-leaf. P. nemorale is typically a dark, dull green.

Unless identified by a recognised expert, a photo is required and the specimen should be examined with a microscope. In the comments box, state the key or ID method used and describe the size and identifying characters.

On soil, directly on siliceous rock and limestone, and on tree bases; able to grow in a wide range of conditions, in acidic to calcareous habitats, but avoiding the most strongly acidic places. Most often in woodland, but also in mossy overhangs and amongst boulders in upland districts; occasionally in springs.

All year.

Widespread and fairly frequent in Britain.

Status in Leicestershire and Rutland not known.