Mosses

Mosses are tiny green plants that grow close to the ground. They feel soft, like a fluffy carpet. Mosses can be found on rocks, logs, and tree trunks. They like cool, shady, and wet places. Mosses are some of the simplest plants in the world.

Simple but Strong

Mosses do not have real roots, flowers, or seeds. They soak up water through their tiny leaves. Because of this, they need a lot of moisture to live. Mosses spread by making spores, just like ferns. Even though they are small, mosses can live in harsh places.

Why They Matter

Mosses are helpful to the Earth in many ways. They hold water like a sponge and keep soil from washing away. They make a home for tiny bugs and other small creatures. Some animals use moss to build soft nests. Mosses also help new plants start growing on bare rocks.

Fun Facts

• There are over 12,000 kinds of mosses.
• Moss can grow in Antarctica in the cold.
• Some mosses can come back to life after drying out.

Did You Know?

Long ago, people used dried moss to stuff pillows and even to bandage cuts. Moss is soft and can soak up lots of liquid.