Hairycap

Hairycap, scientifically known as Polytrichum commune, is a species of moss found in a wide range of habitats across the globe. It is easily recognizable by its upright, unbranched stems that can grow quite tall for a moss, often reaching heights of 10-20 centimeters. The leaves are lance-shaped and toothed along the margins, and they are arranged spirally around the stem. A distinctive feature that gives the moss its common name is the presence of numerous hair-like filaments, or 'paraphyses', on the underside of the leaves. These paraphyses are thought to play a role in water retention or protection.

This robust moss prefers damp, acidic environments, commonly found in bogs, woodlands, and moorlands. It can also colonize disturbed areas, such as clearings or roadsides. Hairycap reproduces via spores produced in a capsule, which is typically held aloft on a stalk called a seta. The capsule itself is often covered by a fuzzy, hood-like structure known as a calyptra, further contributing to its "hairy" appearance. Despite its common name and widespread distribution, Polytrichum commune is a remarkable example of the resilience and adaptability of bryophytes.