Springy Turf-moss

I spent a very productive morning at Marholm Field Bank with the Langdyke Trust, removing scrub from a small area of species-rich grassland. The very slippery clay soil was carpeted with moss of several different species, including a patch of springy turf-moss. This species is actually very common, and you will find it in many neglected lawns and other areas of rough grassland and heathland. But like many mosses, when viewed closely it's rather beautiful, with its vibrant red stems and translucent, reflexed yellow-green leaves.