Dicranum majus

Greater Fork-moss, Greater Broom Moss

Moderate careTerrestrialNon-toxic5–13 cm

One of the largest mosses in its genus, forming loose, shiny tufts of upright stems with long, narrow leaves (up to 1.5 cm) that curve to one side. This curved shape is called falcate, and it gives the whole tuft a swept, directional quality. Native to humid oceanic woodlands and temperate rainforests of the Northern Hemisphere, it does best in cool, shaded conditions on acidic, humus-rich substrates. It works well as a focal point in closed terrariums, though it needs consistently high humidity and cool temperatures.

Build a terrarium with this plant
Greater Fork-moss image

Care

Light

Indirect light(preferred)Shade tolerant

Humidity

High (60–80%)(preferred)Very high (80%+)

Temperature

0°C20°C40°C
2°C – 20°C

Soil

Peat moss(preferred)Moisture retentiveSphagnum mix

Moisture

Moist(preferred)Wet

Soil pH

4.5 – 6

Appearance

Growth habit

ClumpingUpright

Leaf shape

Lance

Leaf texture

Fine

Distribution

Propagation

Divide existing tufts into smaller clumps and press onto moist, acidic substrate such as humus or rotting wood. Keep humidity high and temperatures cool until new growth appears.