Palustriella commutata

Curled Hook-moss, Curled Hookmoss, Common Hook-moss

Expert careSemi-aquaticNon-toxic4–10 cm

A robust pleurocarpous moss with densely branched, feathery shoots and distinctive falcate (sickle-shaped) leaves. In the wild it grows in calcareous springs and seepages across Europe, parts of North America, and Asia. It needs continuously wet, alkaline conditions to grow well. In terrariums it calls for a calcium-rich substrate and constant moisture, making it best suited for experienced keepers replicating a springline or tufa habitat.

Build a terrarium with this plant
Curled Hook-moss image

Care

Prefers very high humidity, indirect light, with 2–18 °C, and reaches 10 cm at maturity.

Light

Indirect light(preferred)Shade tolerantBright indirect

Humidity

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

Temperature

0°C20°C40°C
2°C – 18°C

Soil

Rocky(preferred)Moisture retentive

Moisture

Wet(preferred)

Soil pH

7 – 8.5

Propagation

Divide established mats into smaller clumps and place on wet, calcareous substrate with continuous water flow. The moss needs alkaline water and constant moisture to re-establish.

Native range

Native to Northern Europe, Middle Europe, Southwestern Europe, Southeastern Europe, Eastern Europe, Caucasus, China, Eastern Canada, and Northeastern U.S.A..

Appearance

Growth habit

CreepingClumping

Leaf shape

Heart

Leaf texture

FeatheryRough

Frequently asked

Can Curled Hook-moss grow in a closed terrarium?

Yes. Curled Hook-moss prefers very high (above 80%) humidity, which is what a closed terrarium provides, and tolerates indirect-light-loving conditions.

Does Curled Hook-moss need drainage?

Curled Hook-moss prefers a wet substrate. Drainage is helpful but not critical; consistent moisture matters more.

What humidity does Curled Hook-moss need?

Curled Hook-moss does best in very high (above 80%) humidity.

Is Curled Hook-moss pet-safe?

Curled Hook-moss is considered non-toxic to common household pets.

How tall does Curled Hook-moss grow?

Curled Hook-moss typically reaches 4–10 cm at maturity.

How do you propagate Curled Hook-moss?

Curled Hook-moss can be propagated by division.

References

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    GBIF - Palustriella commutata

    https://www.gbif.org/species/2681729
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    EUNIS - Palustriella commutata

    https://eunis.eea.europa.eu/species/198083
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