Culture

Into the World of Moss, an Oasis at Your Feet

Often underrated, the tiny world of moss brings beauty to our surroundings, from forests and temples to the most ordinary scenes — like cracks in a sidewalk.

Published

3 days ago

July 3, 2024

Kazuya Kamogawa

Trachycystis flagellaris growing on a fallen tree. Sporophytes extend from the gametophytes. (©Sankei by Kazuya Kamogawa)

My fascination with moss began a few years ago during a forest visit, where I was captivated by nature's glistening green carpet. After a rainfall, mosses glow with a translucent green hue, each tiny body clinging to the raindrops. Since then, I've become passionate about photographing these plants.

*A colony of Trachycystis flagellaris growing on a fallen tree. (©Sankei by Kazuya Kamogawa)*

Whether in meticulously maintained temples, gardens, or rocky ravines, moss-covered landscapes are stunning. It is incredibly soothing to be surrounded by moss green.

After taking in the scenery, the next step is to take a closer look, which can be a surprisingly rewarding experience. Using a magnifying glass, you can observe each species' unique features, including fluffy, tail-like leaves and sporophytes that resemble little triangular hats.

*Sporophytes of juniper haircap moss under a magnifying glass. (©Sankei by Kazuya Kamogawa)*

Joy in Unexpected Places

I once had the opportunity to observe dried moss transform through a microscope as I sprayed it with water. Watching the shriveled leaves unfurl and transform into vivid green filled me with childlike wonder.

Exploring the microcosm of moss is incredibly enjoyable, yet its tiny size makes identifying different species challenging. I long to learn the names of each species, but comparing field guides to the real thing often leaves me confused.

Nature observation events are invaluable in this pursuit. Learning from experts at these events offers a wonderful shortcut into the world of moss. Once you know the names and characteristics of your favorite species, you develop a deeper attachment to them.

*A moss observation event near Shirakoma Pond in Northern Yatsugatake. June 15. (©Sankei by Kazuya Kamogawa)*

You don't have to be an expert to enjoy moss. In daily life, discovering moss in unexpected places is a delight. This versatile plant thrives everywhere — clinging to guardrails, peeking out from sidewalk cracks.

As we approach the peak of the rainy season, take a moment to appreciate the tiny world at your feet. There's a simple joy in noticing these small wonders that add so much beauty to our surroundings.

*A juniper haircap colony. (©Sankei by Kazuya Kamogawa)*

What Are Mosses?

Also known as bryophytes, mosses are terrestrial plants with about 20,000 species worldwide and approximately 1,800 species in Japan. They are smaller than seed plants and reproduce through spores rather than seeds. While often associated with moist environments, they are surprisingly resilient to aridity. Mosses can be found in a variety of habitats, from alpine regions to wetlands and urban areas.

*Left: Pogonatum japonicum and Dactylostalix ringens. Right: A colony of Pogonatum japonicum and Pogonatum contortum illuminated by sunlight in the forest. (©Sankei by Kazuya Kamogawa)*

Mosses do not require soil as they lack roots. They absorb water and nutrients directly through their surfaces from rain or dew. They anchor themselves to rocks, trees, and the ground using structures called rhizoids, which resemble roots and support the plant.

In addition to bonsai, there is a growing trend of cultivating moss at home in glass containers that mimic their natural environments, known as "terrariums." Not all plants with "moss" in their name are true mosses — some might be ferns or lichens.