Hylocomium splendens

Glittering Wood-moss, Splendid Feather Moss, Stair-step Moss, Mountain Fern Moss

Moderate careTerrestrialNon-toxic5–20 cm

A large moss with a distinctive stair-step growth pattern, where each year's new growth emerges from the middle of the previous year's frond. This layered architecture makes it easy to age individual stems by counting tiers. Native to boreal and temperate forests across the Northern Hemisphere, it forms feathery mats of olive-green to yellow-green foliage on reddish stems. It does best in cool, shaded, humid conditions and adds visible structure to closed terrariums that stay consistently moist and cool.

Build a terrarium with this plant
Glittering Wood-moss image

Care

Prefers high humidity, low light, with 5–20 °C, and reaches 20 cm at maturity.

Light

Shade tolerant(preferred)Indirect light

Humidity

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

Temperature

0°C20°C40°C
5°C – 20°C

Soil

Peat moss(preferred)Moisture retentiveSphagnum mix

Moisture

Moist(preferred)Wet

Soil pH

5.5 – 7

Propagation

Gently separate sections of the moss mat, making sure each portion keeps some creeping stems and substrate attachment. Place on moist, acidic substrate in a shaded, humid enclosure.

Frequently asked

Can Glittering Wood-moss grow in a closed terrarium?

Yes. Glittering Wood-moss prefers high (60–80%) humidity, which is what a closed terrarium provides, and tolerates shade-tolerant conditions.

Does Glittering Wood-moss need drainage?

Glittering Wood-moss prefers a moist substrate. Drainage is helpful but not critical; consistent moisture matters more.

What humidity does Glittering Wood-moss need?

Glittering Wood-moss does best in high (60–80%) humidity.

Is Glittering Wood-moss pet-safe?

Glittering Wood-moss is considered non-toxic to common household pets.

How tall does Glittering Wood-moss grow?

Glittering Wood-moss typically reaches 5–20 cm at maturity.

How do you propagate Glittering Wood-moss?

Glittering Wood-moss can be propagated by division or spores.

References

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