Pleurozium schreberi

Red-stemmed Feather Moss, Red-stemmed Feathermoss, Schreber's Big Red Stem Moss

Moderate careTerrestrialNon-toxic5–16 cm

One of the most widespread mosses on the planet, covering boreal and temperate forest floors in thick, loose mats. Its red stems show through glossy yellow-green to golden-green foliage, and its branching pattern is pinnate, meaning the side branches fan out like barbs on a feather. It favours acidic substrates and does well in closed terrariums, where it builds a layered ground cover that reads like a miniature forest floor.

Build a terrarium with this plant
Red-stemmed Feather Moss image

Care

Prefers high humidity, indirect light, with -5–23 °C, and reaches 16 cm at maturity.

Light

Indirect light(preferred)Shade tolerantBright indirect

Humidity

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

Temperature

-10°C15°C40°C
-5°C – 23°C

Soil

Peat moss(preferred)Moisture retentiveSphagnum mix

Moisture

Moist(preferred)Wet

Soil pH

4 – 6

Propagation

Divide established mats into smaller clumps and place on acidic, moist substrate. It re-establishes well in high humidity with indirect light.

Frequently asked

Can Red-stemmed Feather Moss grow in a closed terrarium?

Yes. Red-stemmed Feather Moss prefers high (60–80%) humidity, which is what a closed terrarium provides, and tolerates indirect-light-loving conditions.

Does Red-stemmed Feather Moss need drainage?

Red-stemmed Feather Moss prefers a moist substrate. Drainage is helpful but not critical; consistent moisture matters more.

What humidity does Red-stemmed Feather Moss need?

Red-stemmed Feather Moss does best in high (60–80%) humidity.

Is Red-stemmed Feather Moss pet-safe?

Red-stemmed Feather Moss is considered non-toxic to common household pets.

How tall does Red-stemmed Feather Moss grow?

Red-stemmed Feather Moss typically reaches 5–16 cm at maturity.

How do you propagate Red-stemmed Feather Moss?

Red-stemmed Feather Moss can be propagated by division.

References

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    GBIF - Pleurozium schreberi

    https://www.gbif.org/species/2679715
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    UBC Introduction to Bryophytes

    https://blogs.ubc.ca/biology321/?page_id=974