APPEARANCE
This moss variety is a vibrant green or slightly yellowish colour. It has upright stems that are star shaped and flat topped and form a carpet of branches that cluster in bunches of four to five.
RANGE & HABITAT
This type of sphagnum moss can be found throughout B.C. but it is most common in the northern areas in lower elevations and also in bogs and swamps with shaded forest areas. It is also found all around the world where there is shrubby tundra habitat.
LIFE CYCLE
The sphagnum moss uses spores for reproduction.
ANIMAL USES
This moss provides a great place for nesting and bedding for birds.
TRADITIONAL USES BY INDIGENOUS PEOPLES
The sphagnum moss has been widely used to treat wounds for infection, for baby care and personal hygiene. It can be mixed with pitch to fill the wood in canoes or used alone to line fir pits, fill pillows and mattresses and as moisture for cooking.
OTHER USES
Through a process of distilling, tar can be extracted from the moss. The tar can be used in ointments to treat eczema, acne and psoriases.
STATUS
COSEWIC: Not at Risk
CDC: Yellow
MORE INFORMATION
Photo: eyeweed
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