Beneath the Snow
Brocade Moss (Hypnum imponens) grows in moist forests of the eastern and far western United States. Plants form mats of tiny leaves that resemble brocade embroidery or braids.
As mosses grow, they absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen, so are important to our planet’s health. They also absorb water to prevent erosion of soils and are a habitat for insects. This lovely moss was found in the wet woods of Petersburgh.