Dicranum scoparium

Mood Moss, Broom Forkmoss, Broom Fork-moss, Windswept Broom Moss

Easy careTerrestrialNon-toxic2–10 cm

A tufted moss with sickle-shaped leaves that all curve to one side, giving it a wind-swept look. Native to temperate and boreal forests across the Northern Hemisphere and Oceania, it forms dense, shiny yellow-green to dark green cushions on forest floors, rotting logs, and rocky outcrops. It is called Mood Moss because its leaf colour shifts with moisture levels — brighter when hydrated, duller when dry. One of the most popular and forgiving mosses for closed terrariums.

Build a terrarium with this plant
Mood Moss image

Care

Light

Indirect light(preferred)Bright indirect

Humidity

High (60–80%)(preferred)Very high (80%+)Medium (40–60%)

Temperature

10°C25°C40°C
10°C – 26°C

Soil

Peat moss(preferred)Moisture retentiveSphagnum mix

Moisture

Moist(preferred)

Soil pH

5 – 6.5

Appearance

Growth habit

ClumpingUpright

Leaf shape

Lance

Leaf texture

Glossy

Distribution

Propagation

Gently separate clumps, making sure each portion has intact stems and some base material. Place on moist, acidic substrate in a shaded, humid enclosure. Mist regularly until established.

References

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