Hair-Cap Moss, Juniper polytrichum moss
Polytrichum juniperinum
Family: Polytrichaceae
What it is like
Polytrichum juniperinum is an evergreen Perennial. It is in leaf all year. Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid and neutral soils and can grow in very acid soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers dry or moist soil.
Height (m): 0
Where it is found
Dry acidic soils on heaths, rocks and walls.
Britain.
Conservation Status:
Countries/locations it is found in
How it is used
Food
Rating: 0
Medicine
Rating: 2
The whole herb is powerfully diuretic. An infusion is an excellent remedy in dropsy, especially when used with hydrogogue cathartics. It is also very useful in the treatment of urinary obstructions, gravel etc, causing no nausea and suitable for long-term use.
Diuretic: Acts on the kidneys, promoting the flow of urine.
Urinary: Treats urinary problems, including urinary tract infection (UTI).
Other
Rating:
How it is grown
We have no details of the cultivation needs of this plant, it grows wild on dry acidic soils on heaths, rocks and walls.
Propagating it: Spores - best sown as soon as they are ripe on the surface of a humus-rich sterilized soil. Keep the compost moist, preferably by putting a plastic bag over the pot. Pot on small clumps of plantlets as soon as they are large enough to handle and keep humid until they are well established. Do not plant outside until the plants are at least 2 years old and then only in a very well sheltered position.
Best place to grow: East Wall. In. West Wall. In.
Habit: Perennial
Hardiness: 0-0
Growth:
Soil: Light (sandy), medium
Shade: Semi-shade, no shade
Moisture: Dry, moist