Schistidium crassipilum Thickpoint Grimmia

A common, autoicous, acrocarpous moss which forms cushions on base-rich rocks and boulders, calcareous walls, bridges and concrete structures. It is the most common Schistidium species in lowland Britain. Leaves usually have hair points at their tips which can be of variable length, sometimes absent. Under the microscope, the occurrence of somewhat vague teeth along the upper leaf margin is an important identification character, but also shared by Schistidium apocarpum. However, that species usually has curved leaves which have very short hair points. It is widespread in Britain except for the north of Scotland and it is a common species in much of Wales except in mountainous areas. It is very common in West Glamorgan. Sporophyte capsules, which are largely hidden by the leaves, are common and can be found on plants more or less throughout the year. They mature in late winter and spring.