The key is not to lay it too thickly when fixing to hardscape as you need to see the wood or rock through it. As it also has a moderate growth rate, it can be used to great effect as a carpeting plant in lowlight aquaria. However, if pruned, it can be shaped into attractive clusters, following the lines of wood or shaped to follow the contours of a rock. Left to its own devices, after being attached to hardscape, it will soon resemble a tangle of long, thin, intertwining spiders’ webs. This plant can be either one of grace or disarray. Originating from South-East Asia, it is part of a huge line of terrestrial mosses, but few can adapt to underwater life.
Probably the most commonly available moss, Taxiphyllum barbieri, or Java moss, is versatile and undemanding. In my experience this plant reacts badly to liquid carbon-type products in high concentrations, as when combating algae. It does not require CO2 although, like all plants, this would be very welcome. Over the months the plant’s rhizoids will attach to the hardscape and bloom into a delightful, round mint-green cluster of feathery stems.Ĭare is relatively easy. It’s very slow growing and requires little, if any, pruning. Best tie it in place with dark cotton.įissidens looks particularly natural when tied to branch-like pieces of wood or nestled at the base of a rock formation. Spread it thinly but evenly, not laying too thickly but avoid creating too many gaps. It’s dark green, limp and uninspiring - but the true pleasure is yet to come.Īttaching this delicate moss to any hardscape surface can be fiddly. If receiving this moss by post, you could be disappointed at its transported state. This moss will attach itself to the usual locations - wood, rocks and hardened riverbank soil - during the dry seasons. It can often be found in slow or even stagnant water and its tight cushion-like clusters can also be seen emersed, due to fluctuations in water levels. This aquatic moss originates from the USA but many related species even reach Australia. Phoenix moss, Fissidens fontanus (pictured above)
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