Mamillate Plait-moss - Hypnum andoi

This is the commonest Hypnum on rock and bark in many upland districts of Britain. The leaves vary from 0.75 to about 1.75 mm in length, are strongly curved towards the underside of the shoot, and gradually taper to a fine point. Shoots are irregularly branched, and yellow-green to dull green, without any trace of the warm, golden brown tints sometimes found in H. cupressiforme and which are often conspicuous in H. lacunosum. The shoots can be medium-sized (up to about 1.5 mm wide), but are frequently slender, especially when growing on steep surfaces. The shortly pointed capsule lid is the most reliable feature for distinguishing this from similar species of Hypnum, but when capsules are absent or the lids have fallen, microscopic examination may be necessary to confirm identification. Capsule lids may look more pointed when dry than when moist. The capsules are 2.5 to 3 mm long.

On acidic bark and rock. Sometimes more or less dominant in woodland in upland districts. Generally decreasing rapidly in abundance away from the shade and shelter of woodland.

All year round.

Generally widespread in Britain although its preference for shaded woodland means that it is less common around East Anglia.

Status in Leicestershire and Rutland not known.