Haircap Moss For Sale | Polytrichum
Haircap Moss is an airy, feathery moss that is native to just about every corner of the Earth. This plant is often sought after as one of the few landscape mosses that can tolerate some sunlight, meaning it is not limited to growing only in shaded areas. With that being said, it still grows beautifully in low-light spots such as forests and along moist, shaded water sources.
The dense mats of leaves grow on stems that protrude upwards, boasting some decent height that also makes it stand out from other mosses. It is an effective groundcover with varying shades of green depending on levels of moisture and humidity. When you come across this moss, the tops of the leaves are in the shape of stars, adding the magic of fairytales.
Plant Details - Haircap Moss (Polytrichum)
Family: Polytrichaceae
Light Requirement: Partial Sun- Partial Shade
Water Needs: Moderate - Moist
Height: 2-12 in.
Spread: Indefinite
Growth Rate: Moderate
Wildlife Value: Provides shelter for small creatures, stabilizes soil, provides nesting material for wildlife, and retains beneficial moisture
Like other mosses, this plant spreads horizontally underground through a complex structure of rhizoids and reproduces through spores. It grows best in shade with some dappled sunlight, but can tolerate some more sun exposure as long as it does not dry out too much. This moss relies on consistent moisture not only for its own health, but to absorb and hold onto moisture for small amphibians that may use this moss as shelter.
Landscape Uses and Maintenance - Haircap Moss (Polytrichum)
Haircap Moss can stand on its own with its marvelous stems and leaves, but grows very well when contrasted with other mosses or groundcovers. Haircap Moss requires nearly zero maintenance as long as there is a consistent, reliable source of moisture. If you want to transplant or propagate some of it, you simply pull up a clump and set it down on top of the desired place, providing it with ample water.
Noteworthy Characteristics of Haircap Moss
Don’t be fooled by the leggy, high-reaching stems – this plant is definitely a type of moss! If you are looking for the gentle spread of a moss but want to fill more vertical space, this is the ideal pick that you won’t find in other varieties. The bright green stems of Haircap Moss grow upwards like spiked vines, making this moss particularly identifiable.
Customer Reviews
I’ve worked with several types of moss, but the Haircap Moss from TN Nursery stands out. It arrived in great condition and looks stunning in my natural landscape. It's ideal for retaining soil moisture and providing visual interest. Highly recommend for anyone building a moss garden or woodland trail.
The Haircap Moss from TN Nursery was lush, green, and already thriving just days after planting. I used it for a shady slope in my yard and couldn’t be happier with how well it’s doing. It gives a gorgeous, wild aesthetic and requires very little care.
This moss is exactly what I needed to complete my woodland path. TN Nursery’s Haircap Moss was fresh, pest-free, and beautifully packed. It settled in quickly and looks amazing. I’ll definitely be ordering more to expand the moss garden. Great price and fast delivery too!
The Haircap Moss I received from TN Nursery was packed with care and had great moisture retention. It was vibrant, full, and easy to transplant. It thrives in my shaded flower bed and adds a gorgeous green base layer under shrubs and ferns. Top-notch product!
I’m extremely pleased with the quality of the Haircap Moss from TN Nursery. It started growing and spreading within the first two weeks. It looks fantastic around tree bases and between stepping stones. It’s the perfect moss for creating a lush, forest-floor effect.
Does Haircap Moss spread?
Yes, Haircap Moss spreads naturally through spores and creeping stems. It forms lush, green carpets that expand steadily over time. Its soft texture and easy growth make it ideal for creating serene, mossy landscapes.
Can you plant haircap moss in the sun?
Haircap Moss prefers partial to full shade but can tolerate gentle morning sun. It grows best in cool, moist areas with rich, acidic soil. With the right moisture and light balance, it forms a beautiful, velvety green carpet.
what is the benefits of hair moss?
Haircap Moss offers many benefits, including natural ground coverage that helps retain soil moisture and prevent erosion. It adds lush, green beauty to shaded gardens and woodland landscapes. Its soft texture also creates a calming, natural look perfect for moss gardens and terrariums.
Exposure
Haircap Moss (Polytrichum spp.) thrives in low to moderate light exposure. It prefers shaded or partially shaded environments, often found in woodland settings or areas with dappled sunlight. Total sunlight can cause it to dry out and become unhealthy.
Height at Maturity
Under 6 Inches
Usage
Shade Groundcover
Shipped As
Bare-root
Ships
UPS
Planting Zones
2-9
How To Grow
How to Grow and Care for Moss
Moss is a timeless, low-maintenance plant that brings a soft, green carpet to shaded gardens, woodland paths, stone walls, and water features. Unlike traditional plants, moss doesn't have roots—it absorbs water and nutrients directly through its leaves—making it ideal for moist, acidic soils and areas with poor fertility. To grow moss successfully, choose a shaded or partially shaded location with consistent humidity and minimal foot traffic.
Prepare the site by clearing debris and lightly roughing up the soil or surface to help the moss adhere. Gently press live moss onto the area, mist with water, and keep it consistently moist for several weeks to encourage establishment. Moss prefers rainwater or distilled water, as tap water may contain minerals that hinder growth.
Once established, moss requires very little care—no mowing, fertilizing, or pruning. Simply keep it moist and remove any fallen leaves or debris to prevent smothering. With its rich texture and calming appearance, moss adds a natural elegance and sense of tranquility to any landscape.
