Thuidium delicatulum aka Delicate Thuidium Moss

Thuidium delicatulum is a perennial moss native to eastern North America. Its range includes North Carolina, where it grows in shady places. Common names include delicate fern moss and common fern moss. It belongs to the fern moss family, Thuidiaceae. Despite its common names, it is a true moss, not a fern. Its species name refers to its small, delicate form.

This moss creeps across the soil and forms green ground cover. Its leafy shoots can grow close together, making dense patches. Plants reach about 0.08–0.42 feet [0.025–0.127 metres] tall. Their spread ranges from 0.25–2 feet [0.076–0.61 metres]. The bright green shoots branch like a pinnate fern frond. Tiny, simple leaves overlap along each stem. Each leaf is egg-shaped to triangular, with a smooth edge. Leaves measure about 0.003 feet [0.001 metres] long. A microscope helps reveal their fine details. The stems have no scent, and the leaves lack hairs.

This species produces neither flowers nor fruit. It reproduces through spores held in small capsules. The capsules have a curved, cylindrical shape. Rust-colored stalks hold them above the leafy growth. These stalks stand about 0.08 feet [0.025 metres] tall. Division is another way to propagate this moss. Its fine texture comes from the small leaves and branching shoots.

Grow it in moist soil with shade or filtered light. It accepts deep shade as well as partial shade. Suitable soils include clay, loam, and soil rich in organic matter. The listed hardiness range is USDA zones 5–8. Its growth rate is slow, and its maintenance needs are low. Yet it can spread strongly where moisture and shade suit it. Growth may stall or fail where conditions do not suit it. It can also grow among lawn grasses where soil stays moist.

This moss suits woodland, native, shade, and fairy gardens. It also fits rain gardens, slopes, banks, and small spaces. Birds and small mammals collect it to line their nests. It tolerates compaction, heavy shade, and storm damage. The source also lists resistance to deer and rabbits. NC State reports no pest or disease problems. The supplied evidence gives no information on edibility or toxicity.