This striking moss likes to grow on recently burned ground. The mature purple stalks have oblong purple capsules, some still with straw-colored protective sheaths (calyptra) covering a lighter purple operculum (B).
The only example of this moss was also found in April on recently burned ground – an area being prepared for the restoration of Oak Savanna habitat on an upland ridge in Fontenelle Forest.
This is one of a number of plant species who are first to colonize recently burnt ground. Many other species follow in a predictable order in an effort to eventually restore the original habitat. Also known as Fire Moss.
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