Sphagnum

This is a native species (which we have not yet identified) which flourishes here on the sunny shore of a pond. Given a steady moisture supply and acidic conditions, sphagnum mosses are said to be quite adaptable. In full sun, sphagnum mosses often develop a range of interesting colors; they are less inclined to do this in shade. It is said that sphagnum mosses can even make good rock garden plants. In their normal condition, sphagnum mosses will be saturated with water like a sponge filled to capacity. They have a remarkable ability to remain saturated, or at least wetter than seems reasonable, even when their environment dries out; they can stand considerable summer dryness, especially if they have some shade.