top of page
Columbia Carpet Moss

Bryoerythrophyllum columbianum

JMAEFF_4Nov10_TLC_web_10A9137_edited.png

Status

Special Concern (Federal)
Blue List (Provincial)

Description

Columbian Carpet Moss grows in small clumps with stems that branch at the base and grow 2 to 6 mm tall. The leaves are about 1 mm long and are stiff and sharply pointed. They are usually dark reddish brown when dry and reddish or green when wet.

Habitat

The Columbian Carpet Moss is found in grasslands characterized by hot, dry summers and cool to cold, moderately wet winters. Most populations in Canada are concentrated in the south Okanagan Valley where they grow on compact silty to sandy soils.

Threats

-Habitat loss due to agricultural development and urbanization
-Habitat disturbance by livestock
-Road construction
-Erosion
-Invasive plants

You Can Help!

-Learn more about this plant and its biology
-Avoid trampling or driving over the plant and the surrounding environment
-Reduce livestock grazing
-Control and/or remove invasive plants and reduce soil disturbance to prevent invasive plants from establishing

Resources

bottom of page