Ancient and damp, mosses are part of a group of plants known as bryophytes. There are over 20,000 species of bryophyte on Earth, with over 1,000 species found in the UK. The UK’s bryophytes are of global significance, but they are threatened by human activities.
Trees woods and wildlife
Elegant and damp. Swan's-neck thyme-moss is one of our most common mosses. Lush green with bright green new growth in the spring.
Trees woods and wildlife
Bristly, spongy, and very sensitive to pollution, the bristle mosses are true tree lovers. Whereas most woodland mosses grow on the ground, look for these on tree trunks, branches and twigs.
Trees woods and wildlife
Cushions of feathery green moss strewn nonchalantly over the woodland floor, common striated feather-moss is one cool customer. It brings colour to shady places and it is a characteristic of old ash woodlands in particular.
Also known as Atlantic or Celtic rainforest, this special habitat is incredibly rare. Its lush conditions are perfect for scarce plants, lichens and fungi, as well as a number of unusual animals.
Learn more about the UK's rainforest
