Plagiothecium undulatum

Waved Silk Moss, Waved Silk-moss, Wavy-leaved Cotton Moss

Moderate careTerrestrialNon-toxic3–8 cm

A large moss with wavy, transversely ridged leaves and an unusual whitish to pale green colour that stands out against darker species. It is pleurocarpous, meaning it branches and spreads sideways rather than growing strictly upright. Native across Europe, Asia, and North America, it does best on acidic substrates in shaded, woodland-like conditions. Its silky texture and high humidity needs make it well suited to closed terrariums.

Build a terrarium with this plant
Waved Silk Moss image

Care

Light

Shade tolerant(preferred)Indirect light

Humidity

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

Temperature

0°C20°C40°C
0°C – 22°C

Soil

Peat moss(preferred)Moisture retentiveSphagnum mix

Moisture

Moist(preferred)Wet

Soil pH

4 – 6

Appearance

Growth habit

Creeping

Leaf shape

Oval

Leaf texture

GlossyCrinkled

Distribution

Propagation

Divide established mats into smaller clumps and place on acidic, moist substrate in shade. It settles in well when humidity stays high.