Sphagnum Moss 

Sphagnum moss can be found in wet and boggy places. It will grow best in acidic soil. This particular type of moss needs a low pH so it can’t grow in soil or near water that has any amount of lime in it. It often times grows in clusters but is fairly small though these clusters are small they are extremely dense. This moss so close together called bog mats that it could float on top of the water. It has a very shallow root system making it versatile to grow almost anywhere. Because of all of this, it can support the weight of a large moose.

SPAGHNUM MOSS HAS SMALL LEAVES

The leaves are small and often times have very small teeth. It can grow up to four inches tall and is classified as a small grower. The leaves can vary in color from red, burgundy, yellow or brown depending on the area that it is growing in. But most often you will see the leaves as light green. Because of the capillary tubes, it holds water like a sponge. Therefore you can squeeze it out, and it can be reused.  If you are every in a survival situation finding this moss dry can be used as a great tinder or fire starter. Though it doesn’t burn as long as other things, you could use as tinder. Since this particular type of moss grows in swamps, and wet areas, it is hard to find dry moss to use as a fire starter.