Taxonomy

Division:

Bryophyta | - Mosses

Family:

Sphagnaceae

Genus:

Sphagnum

Species:

Sphagnum fuscum

USDA Symbol:

SPFU70

Growth Characteristics

Growth Habit:

Nonvascular

Height:

20 cm

Light Requirements:

Full Sun

Drought Tolerance:

Low

Ground Cover:

Yes

Garden & Ecology Notes

Wildlife Value:

small mammals, amphibians

Deer Resistant:

Yes

Fall Color:

brown, rusty red

Fire Notes:

Highly flammable when dry; peat fires can burn for extended periods and are detrimental to Sphagnum populations.

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:

acidic, nutrient-poor peat soil

pH:

3.5 - 5.0 (very acidic)

Drainage:

tolerates poor drainage

Moisture:

consistently moist

Notes:

commonly found in bogs and peatlands